On Values and Greenlights
Image: Operation Gratitude with Matthew and Camila McConaughey’s Foundation, Just Keep Livin
I love Matthew McConaughey (I’m also very fond of his wife, Camila).
There are many reasons why I feel this way. He’s a great actor, he is philanthropic, he’s a fellow Longhorn and Texan, and he’s unapologetic for the way he lives his life. You can learn more about that in his book, Greenlights.
He also speaks my language, which is the language of values. In a recent Instagram post, McConaughey talks about the value of values. He shares that one of his values is to always do your best in everything you do. (He actually used more colorful words to describe this value). For McConaughey, he can be at peace with an outcome as long as he knows he did his best. What’s the point of doing something if you aren’t going to put forth the best effort?
As I thought about this, I realized one of the greatest challenges we have as humans is to not be attached to results.
This doesn’t mean don’t set goals, visions, or outcomes. It means that if we get too focused on the finish line, we miss the lessons and opportunities available as we are approaching those goals. If we aren’t present to those lessons, then how can we reach the next level?
I have also found that sometimes, we get information along the way that has us reevaluate the end result and shift towards a result that is even better if we are paying attention. Even though I think I know what I want, I often receive exactly what I need. Out of that knowing comes my growth, development, and joy.
This is the foundation of the work we do at Momentum Consulting.
We guide our clients in a process of revealing their Core Values and coach them on the awareness of the positive impacts and the limitations of those values. These Core Values are instrumental in how we approach and achieve our goals. Everyone is different and unique and there are many different paths to our success.
I had an extraordinary experience last night with friends and observing core values in action. They wanted to discuss their latest investment and the excitement about the potential opportunity. I was aware that one of my friends has risk-taking as a Core Value. I, on the other hand, have stability as a Core Value.
These could appear to be in conflict. However, I witnessed and participated in the most respectful conversation about two opposing points of view. What was so extraordinary was that everyone really listened to understand the point of view of the other. No one was attached to the outcome of persuading their position. I walked away feeling more connected, educated, and respected. When we are willing to be curious about what’s important to others even when we disagree, we create a safe space to share ourselves.
This is about honoring the values of others without feeling we are compromising our own.
When was the last time to took a moment to really hear someone? Can you identify the values that drive them? What difference would it make if you did? I would love to hear your experience!
Alright, alright, alright,
Fundamental #6: CREATE SAFE ENVIRONMENT
Safety requires accountability, awareness and diligence. Never take short cuts that compromise yours or others’ safety. Performance thrives in a safe environment.
