People with Belief in their top 5 CliftonStrengths (formerly Gallup Strengthsfinder) profiling results possess core values that are enduring. Their Belief talent theme causes them to be family-oriented, altruistic and spiritual. They value responsibility and high ethics, both in themselves and others. For some individuals, some of these values are sub-conscious and manifest when others behave in ways that clash with these values. At the same time, for other individuals, they aim to intentionally live out their core values. For example, someone who values his family intentionally schedules time with his spouse and children, orientates decisions toward what is best for them, and purposefully shares about family life with others, often with much pride.
Our core values affect our behaviour in many ways. Those with the Belief CliftonStrengths talent theme can be sometimes construed to be convicted, yet at the same time labeled “stubborn.” Fundamentally, the genius of the Belief talent theme lies in the tremendous power of allowing core values to provide a source of drive, direction, and clarity.
How can one with Belief develop this talent and turn it into a strength? I would like to suggest 3 ways.
1. TAKE TIME TO THINK ABOUT YOUR CORE VALUES AND WRITE THEM DOWN IN A SIMPLE VALUE STATEMENT.
This, in part, allows these values to grow from the sub-conscious to the conscious level and be intentionally lived out.
A person’s core values represent his/her unique wiring - the ways his or her views and approaches to life are shaped. Values are underlying assumptions that shape and form our mindsets or convictions that shape a person’s actions and decisions. They are usually born out of lessons we learn and then forged into our psyche, often through difficult times.
A good value statement is short, concise and applicable in everyday life. An example of a Value Statement would be, "My family is my PRIORITY. My wife and my children come FIRST in all my conflicting schedules." Such a statement reminds one to orient his/her decisions in a value-driven manner. Another example would be, "Cultivate respect for others. Catch people doing good." Such a statement reminds one that there is a genius in everybody and nurtures a heart of respect and appreciation for others.
When a Value Statement is shared with co-workers, it facilitates greater understanding from colleagues and bosses, potentially reducing conflicts.
2. REFLECT ON HOW YOU MAY HAVE IMPOSED YOUR VALUES ON OTHERS.
Ask those around you to share what they perceive to be your values and take time to listen to their perspectives. Your values can often be strengthened when they are given feedback. Values that are tested and adjusted with humility are robust and are a gateway to influencing others. Your values can be imparted to future generations when they are the cornerstone to your successes in life.
3. FORGE PARTNERSHIPS WITH OTHERS
Someone with the Communication talent theme can help you to express your core values into simple and concise value statements to be shared and lived out intentionally. Someone with the Activator talent theme can help you to think about how your core values can be intentionally lived out in life. Someone strong in the Connectedness talent theme can help paint a bigger picture as to how your values can be powerfully used to serve a larger cause.
Written by Victor Seet
Activator • Communication • Strategic • Self-Assurance • Command
As a CliftonStrengths and Newfield Certified Ontological Coach in Singapore, Victor is passionate about helping people be better observer of themselves to achieve the results they want, especially in the area of well-being. Victor intentionally integrates the strengths-based and ontological approach into his leadership coaching and workshops.
