Values Studio

What are Values?

There are many words that represent "values" in our world. We each have an understanding of what "values" means to us personally. That understanding may differ from the understanding of others, even within our own family. Where values are concerned, there are no right or wrong definitions. That suggests we need to communicate the meaning of our values to those who need to know in order for there to be common understanding and to avoid confusion.

The following six words and definitions describe, from our perspective, where values fit in the big picture of life:

Principles:
Principles are the basic truths or natural laws that apply at all times and in all places. All people are impacted one way or another based on this truth or natural law. An example of this is the law of the harvest. This law suggests that in order to reap a harvest we must prepare the ground, plant the seeds, cultivate the ground, weed and water. Natural laws must always be honored if a harvest is the desired outcome.

Values:
Values are the ideals, customs, and beliefs that guide our behavior and give significance to our lives. We aspire to act in ways that honor our values. Our behavior is guided by our values. For example, if respect is important to us, we will treat ourselves and others with respect - we behave in ways that honor our understanding of respect.

Morals:
Morals are rules of conduct, based on a belief system, that conform to establish standards of good behavior. We feel compelled to conform our morals based on our belief system. For example, if our morals include the belief that modesty is important, we dress in ways that reflect our belief system.

Virtues:
Virtues are an admirable quality that is acquired through self-discipline. For example, if patience is an admirable quality that we are working on, we make a concerted effort to be patient ourselves and exercise patience regarding others.

Ethics:
Ethics involve knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is the right thing to do. The values you learn at home become the ethics you display to the world through your actions, especially in school and the workplace. For example, if accountability is important within our lives, we act in ways to show we are personally accountable for the actions we take and things we commit to do.

Characteristics:
Characteristics are qualities, attributes, or traits that distinguish one person from another. You have individual distinction because of your characteristics. For example, one of your characteristics is the color of your eyes. You also have personality characteristics such as the ability to maintain a positive attitude in difficult situations.