In this edition of LDi’s Values-Based Leadership Newsletter, Anthony Tormey, President & CEO of the Leader Development Institute, explores the impact of values-driven leadership. He shows how embodying principles can inspire trust, foster accountability, and cultivate integrity.
In the ever-evolving landscape of personal and professional development, one timeless principle continues to stand out: leading by example. At the heart of this approach lies the notion of harnessing core values to drive growth both in our personal lives and within the realms of our careers. In this edition of LDi’s Values-Based Leadership Newsletter, we delve into the significance of aligning our actions with our values and explore how doing so can pave the way for meaning and purpose.
Leading by example hinges on the alignment between our professed values and our day-to-day actions. It's not enough to merely espouse lofty ideals; true leadership requires embodying those values consistently in our conduct. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in our communities, our actions should reflect the principles we profess to uphold.
When leaders lead by example, they inspire trust, foster accountability, and cultivate a culture of integrity. Employees look to their leaders not only for direction but also for cues on how to navigate challenges and conduct themselves. By modeling behaviors that align with their core values, leaders set a powerful precedent, influencing those around them to follow suit.
Embracing our core values as guiding lights can catalyze personal and professional growth in myriad ways. When we operate in alignment with our values, we experience a sense of congruence and fulfillment, fueling intrinsic motivation and resilience in the face of adversity. Moreover, integrating our values into our leadership approach fosters authenticity and fosters deeper connections with those we lead.
Early in my career as a public speaker, I landed a speaking gig with a national chain of buffet restaurants. Eager to gather information for my upcoming engagement, I arranged a visit to one of the local branches. Stepping inside, I sought out the manager on duty, who had been anticipating my arrival. She greeted me warmly, extending an invitation to explore the restaurant and chat with any staff members I pleased.
Although this isn’t about the manager's leadership—it was Donna. A young college student, Donna sported one of those classic white puffy chef hats as she meticulously tended to the salad bar. Intrigued, I observed her as she tidied up the display, wiping up drops of dressing, and swapping out wilted veggies for fresh trays of produce.
I caught up with Donna in the kitchen and asked about her role. With pride in her voice, she declared, "I'm the salad chef." The "salad CHEF"?! I couldn’t help but think to myself. After all, we were in an all you could eat buffet.
Without missing a beat, Donna proceeded to enlighten me with earnest enthusiasm. She explained how it was her duty to uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and freshness at her station, ensuring that every patron who stepped foot into "her restaurant" enjoyed a pristine salad experience.
It was clear Donna embodied the core values of integrity, a tireless work ethic, unwavering drive, and an innate sense of hospitality. In her humble role as the Salad Chef, she didn't just follow the company's values—she lived and breathed them, leading by example for others to follow.
In the professional sphere, organizations that prioritize values-driven leadership tend to attract and retain top talent. Employees are more engaged and committed when they perceive their work as meaningful and aligned with their personal values. Consequently, organizations that foster a values-driven culture often enjoy higher levels of employee satisfaction, productivity, and innovation.
In the journey of personal and professional growth, leading by example stands as a timeless principle that transcends industries, disciplines, and roles. By anchoring ourselves in our core values and embodying them through our actions, we not only elevate ourselves but also inspire those around us to strive for excellence. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us remember the transformative power of aligning our actions with our values, for therein lies the path to authentic leadership and enduring success.
Be Extraordinary!
Anthony Tormey, President & CEO
Leader Development Institute (LDi)
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Successful people live by a set of closely followed rules and values, have you read LDi’s Rules for Success? These rules will help you hone in on the best success practices that benefit you in all areas of your life, personal and professional. You can find LDi’s Rules for Success HERE.
