Watch the full episode: Creating a Values-Based Culture with Paul Ingram

Laminating Your Values

Have you ever found yourself feeling uncertain or overwhelmed in the face of a tough decision or challenging situation? It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget what really matters. But what if there was a way to stay grounded in your Inner Core by focusing on your values even in the midst of chaos?

The laminated card is a powerful tool that can help us in such situations, popularized by Professor Paul Ingram of Columbia Business School. The concept is simple: create a card with your top values and keep it with you at all times. When you’re feeling stressed or unsure, pull out your card and remind yourself of what’s truly important.

The Impact of Values-based Decisions and Behaviors

Research has shown that bringing your values to the forefront of your mind can have a significant impact on your behavior. When you’re reminded of your values, you’re more likely to act in ways that align with them. This not only helps you make better decisions — it can also increase your sense of purpose and fulfillment.

So, what are your values? Take some time to reflect and identify the ones that are most important to you. Maybe it’s integrity, courage, or compassion. Once you have a list, distill it down to your top three or four and create a card with those values prominently displayed.

Carry the card with you wherever you go, whether it’s in your wallet, purse, or briefcase. You can even add the values on a snowboard or make a poster out of them. Use it as a tool to stay connected to your values and guide your decision-making process. Over time, you’ll find that it becomes a natural part of your routine and a powerful aid for personal leadership and high performance.

A Values-based Leadership Instills Organizational Purpose

Values-based decisions and behaviors are not just a moral compass, but a strategic tool for enhancing leadership and performance. When decisions at all levels of an organization are rooted in clearly defined values, it promotes trust and transparency and instills a sense of shared purpose among employees.

At Mentora, it is our goal is to build inspired, purpose-driven organizations — where every employee connects their personal values with their role at work, and every team operates with a tightly-aligned purpose. In that regard, we’re grateful to have Paul Ingram as part of Mentora’s faculty, in designing and delivering culture- and leadership-development programs for our clients.