The Role of Personal Values in Decision-Making

Personal values play a crucial role in shaping our decision-making processes. They provide a framework for what we consider right or wrong, true or false. Having a clear set of values helps us navigate the complexities of life and make choices that align with our beliefs. This article explores how personal values influence decision-making, using insights from spiritual leaders and personal anecdotes.

Understanding Personal Values

Personal values are the principles that guide our behavior and attitudes. They encompass beliefs about what is important in life, what actions are ethical or unethical, and how we interact with others. When we make decisions, these values act as a personal compass, helping us to choose the path that is most meaningful to us.

Real World Examples of Personal Values in Decision-Making

Consider the narrator's journey in finding personal values. They value the truth and have developed a strong aversion to lying or promoting falsehoods. This value has influenced their career decisions, as they would not hire or associate with people who lie or perpetrate what they deem as big lies, such as the idea that gender can be changed. Here is an example of how personal values shaped a specific decision:

Example: Truth over Fiction
The narrator values the truth so strongly that they have refused to hire or support anyone who advocates for the idea that people can change their gender because they see this as a lie. They firmly believe in living up to their values, even if it means making difficult choices.

Of God and Human Nature

Another aspect of personal values is how they align with higher ideals or grander concepts. For example, the narrator shares a quote by Meher Baba, a spiritual leader, which speaks to the importance of finding God and returning to one's true self. This reflects a deep-seated belief that living one's values is a journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

"The finding of God is the coming to one's own self." Meher Baba

Similarly, the narrator cites another quote, which emphasizes the importance of truth and genuine connections:

"Everything real is given and received in silence.” Meher Baba

Practical Application of Personal Values in Decision-Making

To make ethical decisions, it is essential to connect our values to our actions. Here are some steps to consider:

Evaluate your core values: What are your fundamental beliefs about right and wrong? Apply them to specific situations: How would your values guide you in different scenarios? Reflect on the outcomes: What are the potential consequences of your decisions? Make a decision: Choose the action that aligns best with your values.

Challenges in Living Up to Personal Values

While it is important to have strong values, it is equally important to recognize the challenges in living up to them. The narrator shares their own struggles, particularly with overcoming desires like sexual temptation. They believe that emotional desires can make it difficult to adhere to values but still strive to stay true to their principles:

"I think mostly emotional but that’s no excuse but I think I can honestly say I've never used God’s name to make money so I think I try to live up to my values most of the time but I find that at times sex is my hardest desire to overcome it’s funny in a way because money is nowhere the temptation that sex is and power I looked at it and saw there was no good to come of it I believe it all depends on what you have seen as Truth thru your lifetimes right now the only thing I see that’s real to me is God will be well my friend"

This reflection highlights the ongoing struggle many people face in balancing desires with moral values. Despite challenges, the narrator remains committed to living according to their values.

Conclusion

Personal values are not just abstract concepts; they are the bedrock upon which we build our decisions. By understanding and applying our values in our choices, we can lead more ethical and fulfilling lives. As the narrator learned, living up to your values is a continuous process, but it is one that can bring personal growth and a sense of purpose.