The Importance of Personal Values: Living by the Compass, Not the Clock

Let’s face it—life can feel like a never-ending race against the clock. There’s always a meeting to attend, a deadline to meet, or a list of errands that just keeps growing. Time seems to fly, and before you know it, the day is gone.

But here’s the thing: while the clock helps us keep track of time, it doesn’t tell us how to spend it. That’s where your personal values come in—your inner compass that guides your decisions, gives meaning to your actions, and keeps you grounded when life feels overwhelming.

“It’s not enough to be busy. The question is: what are we busy about?” – Henry David Thoreau

The Compass vs. The Clock

Think of the clock as a tool for efficiency. It’s all about asking, “How much time do I have, and how can I get more done?” The compass, on the other hand, is about effectiveness. It makes you pause and ask, “Am I headed in the right direction? Is what I’m doing aligned with my values and purpose?”

Without a compass, the clock can lead to burnout—busying yourself with tasks that don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. But with a compass, even the smallest actions feel meaningful because they’re part of a bigger picture.

For example:

• Think about Elon Musk. He’s juggling multiple ventures, working insane hours, but his compass—creating a sustainable future—guides everything he does.

• Or take Jacinda Ardern. During her time as New Zealand’s Prime Minister, her response to crises wasn’t just efficient but deeply compassionate, showing how values like empathy can shape leadership.

“Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.” – William Penn

What’s My Compass?

Over the years, I’ve realized the importance of having a strong compass to navigate life and work. Here are the values that keep me on track:

1. Compassion

“Compassion is the ultimate expression of your highest self.” – Russell Simmons

For me, kindness isn’t optional. Whether it’s supporting my team, creating a culture of trust, or fostering wellness, compassion drives my choices. It’s what makes tough moments a little easier and connections more meaningful.

2. Growth and Learning

“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.” – James Cash Penney

Life is a constant classroom. I’m always looking for ways to grow—whether it’s through self-improvement, coaching my team, or learning from new experiences. Growth isn’t just about gaining skills; it’s about evolving as a person and as a leader.

3. Integrity and Responsibility

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” – C.S. Lewis

Staying true to my word and holding myself accountable are non-negotiables. Whether it’s personal or professional, I believe in doing what’s right—even when it’s not easy.

4. Work-Life Balance

“You can’t do a good job if your job is all you do.” – Unknown

I’m a big believer in balance. It’s not about dividing time equally but about integrating work and life in a way that feels fulfilling. That’s why I’ve introduced initiatives like wellbeing holidays—to make sure we all get the space to recharge.

5. Purpose and Alignment

“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” – John F. Kennedy

At the end of the day, I want the work I do to matter. Whether it’s a small task or a big project, it has to align with my purpose and the impact I want to create.

Living by the Compass

Here’s the truth: it’s not always easy to live by your compass. The world is noisy, and the pressure to keep up can be intense. But when I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself to slow down and check in with my values.

And I’m not the only one.

• Look at Patagonia, a company that’s built its entire brand around environmental sustainability. They prove that sticking to your values doesn’t just feel good—it works.

• Or think of Malala Yousafzai, who stayed true to her belief in education and empowerment, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.

“When values, thoughts, feelings, and actions are in alignment, a person becomes focused and character is strengthened.” – John C. Maxwell

These are reminders that when you live by your compass, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving.

So, let me ask you:

• Are you letting the clock dictate your life, or is your compass guiding your path?

• What are the values that define your True North?

Because here’s the thing: life isn’t about cramming as much as you can into every hour. It’s about making the hours count. So, let’s take a deep breath, refocus on what truly matters, and choose the compass over the clock.

“The key is in not spending time, but in investing it.” – Stephen R. Covey

You’ll be amazed at where it takes you.