Core Values Aren’t What You Say — They’re What You Live

Let’s talk about core values.
Not the ones printed on a wall or listed on a website—but the ones you actually live by.

Core values are the principles that guide how you operate, especially when things get hard. They show up in how you act when it’s inconvenient. They’re revealed in how you move when no one is watching.

Anyone can say they value integrity, service, or growth.
Values only count when they’re practiced behind closed doors.

Values in Action

A powerful example of this is Kobe Bryant.

One of his core values was work ethic—and we know that because people consistently found him in the gym early, training when no one else was around, and still there hours later after everyone had left.

He didn’t talk about his values.
He lived them.

That’s the difference.

Why Defining Your Core Values Matters

Defining your core values creates clarity. It shapes how you make decisions, how you show up, and how others experience working with you.

We recommend choosing no more than three core values to focus on at a time. Not because others aren’t important, but because focus creates alignment.

Here are a few examples:

• Integrity — I do what I say I’ll do

• Service — I lead with generosity

• Growth — I pursue uncomfortable progress

These aren’t rules. Your values should reflect what genuinely resonates with you. Once chosen, commit to prioritizing and living them for the next 90 days.

Values Shape Your Leadership

Your values define:

• Your brand

• Your reputation

• Your leadership

To reinforce them, a simple weekly check-in can make all the difference:

• Am I moving toward my mission?

• Did I live out my three core values?

• Did I complete my three key actions?

• Did I lead with value?

This process helps you run your business like a professional—rather than reacting week to week like a freelancer.

Building Something That Matters

Without a clear mission and values, a business quickly turns into just another job.

With them, it becomes a vehicle for freedom, income, and impact.

You didn’t start a business to own a job.
You started it to build something meaningful.

If you want guidance defining and applying core values in a way that actually shapes your business and leadership, support is available—and the process starts with clarity.