“Self-reflection is the school of wisdom”
Baltasar Gracian

Leadership is an INSIDE job… Leadership is not simply something you do with a set of tools of the trade; it is an expression of who we are as a person. Our influence arises from your intrinsic character traits, beliefs, and behaviors that make us who we are and how we behave. The internal self-awareness process to look within yourself for “who you really are” what you stand for and what you value most is a foundational requirement for masterful leadership.

Values are defined as the qualities, principles and things that are intrinsically valuable or desirable to you. They have a particular significance and are the basic essence of why we excel, falter, flatline, deny, feel exhilaration or reach your aspirations. Being clear about our values help resolve hidden conflicts, remove negative stressors and give us a firm direction to move towards solutions and away from problems.

The words used to describe and articulate values are unique and individual and come from a deep subconscious level that creates an emotional high and fulfillment. Your values govern your choices, the type of people you attract and the way you lead life and business. There are many words to describe values such as: security, money, family, accountability, responsibility, equality, trust, honesty, education, effort, perseverance, loyalty, fun, faithfulness, aesthetics, image, acceptance, appreciation, balance, love, friendship, generosity, maturity, etc.

The process of gaining clarity of your unique values involves taking some time to ask and brainstorm and write any word that comes to mind without over-thinking or second guessing. Values clarification questions about yourself may include:

• What do I value most about myself? (strengths)
• What do I value most about family?
• What are my values as a leader?
• What is most important to me about dentistry?
• What type of people do I attract?
• How do I want to behave with others?
• What is important to me about patient care?
• What makes me the happiest?
• What are the lines I will and will not cross?

** Values are NOT operating practices, systems, business strategies, goals or competencies. They are best expressed in terms of behavior. It becomes easier to speak honestly, reveal information and achieve your goals and vision when a group shares a common set of agreed-upon values driven by the leader.