As a leader, or rather as a person, how do I establish clear principles, and am I actively living by them?
Upholding our principles consistently can be challenging, but it starts with ensuring they are well-defined and effectively communicated. Good intentions alone are not enough; leadership requires translating those intentions, those principles, into action, especially in critical decision-making moments. This demands preparation—investing the time and effort to set our standards thoughtfully and ensuring they remain at the top of our minds when choices arise. Authentic leadership is reflected in the alignment of our actions with the principles we claim to uphold.
Here are strategies for forming your principles and aligning them with your decisions. They won’t all resonate with you, but some will.
Clarify Your Core Beliefs
Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Consider your personal and professional experiences, ethical convictions, and long-term goals. This isn’t just for your profession or your job. It applies to the “Work of Your Life,” such as your family, friends, and what you do in your community. Your standards should align with these foundational beliefs, as they are the compass for your decision-making.
I do this through daily prayer, meditation, and journaling. Some key resources for me are The Daily Stoic, Word on Fire, and Laudate. This is what works for me, and the “season” of life I am in. It will be different for you.
Define Your Purpose
Identify the purpose that drives you as a leader and in life. Understanding your “why” will help you establish standards that align with the impact you want to make. A clear purpose ensures that your principles are not arbitrary but rooted in meaningful goals.
I only recently discovered my “WHY” through Simon Sinek’s thought and work. I say “discovered” because the “WHY” is already there, waiting to be found. I found one particular part of the process deeply moving.
Seek Feedback from Trusted Sources
Consult with mentors, peers, and team members to gain diverse perspectives on your principles. This input can help you identify blind spots, refine your principles, and ensure they resonate with others.
As I think about this, I have a group of people who are my “advisory council.” We don’t meet, but these are people with whom I am open, can count on to hold me accountable, and challenge me. Think about the 3-5 people (other than your spouse) in your life who are your ” go-to” individuals.
Analyze Past Decisions
Reflect on decisions you’ve made in the past, both successful and unsuccessful. Consider the values that guided those choices and whether they align with the person you aspire to be. Use this analysis to refine or establish clearer principles.
I often apply this when I feel I have made a mistake or acted inconsistently (or someone points it out to me). This is often a good task for your personal “advisory council.”
Study Role Models
Observe leaders you admire and analyze the principles they live by. Consider how their standards have influenced their success and how those principles might inform your leadership style.
Don’t just study their positive aspects. Delve into their shortcomings. Those are also revealing.
Learning what NOT to do or how NOT to act is effective and keeps you from making avoidable mistakes.
Anticipate Ethical Dilemmas
Consider the challenges you’ll likely face and identify the principles to guide you. Proactively establishing principles ensures clarity in moments of uncertainty.
Document and Revisit Your Principles
Write down your guiding principles. Review and refine them to remain relevant and aligned with your evolving leadership role. This process reinforces your commitment and keeps your principles at the forefront of your actions.
Final Thought
Establishing strong standards, values, and principles requires introspection, consistency, and a willingness to grow. It can be a painful process, especially when reconciling with your actions. These strategies will help you craft a solid foundation that guides your decisions and inspires trust and accountability in those you lead.