Personal Values Development

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RESPONSE:

1. Defining what your values are; the sources (people, institutions, events, etc.) that helped shape your values, and the criteria and decision-making factors you utilize to revise them. Also, discuss the potential impact of your values and your performance in your work place.

Each of us brings a personal set of values and attitudes that have been refined over several (or many) years. These values and beliefs direct all our thought and behaviours. Interestingly, these values and attitudes are still being shaped and refined with each new experience. Specific decision-making processes help a person evaluate incoming information and a person either rejects or accepts values that contradict previous values or beliefs, or perhaps, the value or belief is updated or slightly changed to accommodate the new information from the experience e.g., going to a church service might result in changed views and values (http://www.usaghessen.eur.army.mil/EO/instructorsguides/Values.htm).

You might have strong memories about recent events in your life, such as a job promotion, schooling, a new baby, a church service or a transfer. These events and ones yet to come, serve to shape your values and attitudes for the future. Interestingly, values and attitudes do not automatically change just because someone hears contradicting values and beliefs. Some values and attitudes, when coupled with a lack of awareness, or insensitivity about others that are different from ourselves can produce confrontations, anger, and even violence (http://www.usaghessen.eur.army.mil/EO/instructorsguides/Values.htm)

Early in life, personal values are shaped by our families, television programs, teachers, etc, but mostly our families initially. Socialization during these formative years have a powerful effect later in life, although we can change our values when we are made aware that other values might be more productive. Many family values are rooted in religion. One common value in most religions reflects a common Universal theme "do onto others as you would have them do onto you.? This promotes compassion and kindness towards others. It encouraged community and friendships. For example, I was raised in the Roman Catholic Church, so the church values were reflected in my family. Love your neighbor as yourself. Be kind ...