What Are Core Values and How Do They Influence Decision-Making? – Copy
By Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, Global Influencer & Author of 28COE Core Values – Edition 1
In a world driven by rapid innovation, competition, and constant change, individuals and organizations are increasingly turning toward one guiding compass: core values. Core values are not merely inspirational words or empty slogans framed on walls; they are the deeply held beliefs that govern behaviors, shape cultures, and influence every decision we make. Whether it’s an individual navigating personal dilemmas or a multinational corporation planning its strategy, core values function as an internal moral GPS.
As a global influencer, serial entrepreneur, and the author of the acclaimed 28COE Core Values – Edition 1, I have observed that those who lead with values lead with clarity, purpose, and integrity. Core values don’t just shape decisions—they shape destinies.
What Are Core Values?
Core values are the fundamental beliefs and guiding principles that dictate behavior and action. They reflect what is important in life or business and serve as a reference point for determining right from wrong, good from bad, and appropriate from inappropriate.
For individuals, core values might include integrity, empathy, courage, or resilience. For organizations, they might embody innovation, customer-centricity, sustainability, or transparency. Core values are often ingrained through upbringing, culture, experiences, and personal evolution.
Key Characteristics of Core Values:
- Timeless: They remain consistent despite changing circumstances.
- Non-negotiable: True core values are not up for compromise.
- Actionable: They drive behavior and decision-making.
- Identity-defining: They help define “who you are” or “who your organization is.”
How Do Core Values Influence Decision-Making?
At both the personal and professional levels, decision-making is complex and often involves navigating ambiguity, pressure, or ethical dilemmas. This is where core values act as an anchor, helping to:
- Clarify priorities
- Eliminate confusion
- Align actions with beliefs
- Enhance credibility and trust
Let’s explore how core values impact different aspects of decision-making:
1. Personal Decision-Making
When confronted with moral or practical choices, individuals rely on their values as a litmus test. For example, someone who values honesty will likely avoid deceitful shortcuts, even under pressure. These decisions—though seemingly small—accumulate to shape a person’s character, relationships, and long-term success.
💡 Example: A young professional may choose a lesser-paying job at a mission-driven nonprofit because it aligns with their values of compassion and social justice.
2. Organizational Decision-Making
In businesses, core values influence everything from hiring practices to customer service and corporate social responsibility. They serve as a strategic filter to ensure consistency and cohesion across departments.
💡 Example: A company with a core value of “sustainability” might refuse to partner with suppliers who exploit natural resources, even if those deals seem profitable.
3. Leadership and Governance
Great leaders are values-based decision-makers. They communicate values clearly, embody them authentically, and build cultures that reflect them. When crises arise, values act as the compass for ethical and resilient leadership.
💡 Example: During a financial downturn, a values-driven CEO may choose to cut executive bonuses instead of laying off employees, demonstrating care and solidarity.
4. Crisis and Conflict Resolution
When stakeholders have conflicting opinions or interests, shared values can unify decision-making. They serve as common ground for compromise and progress.
💡 Example: In an internal conflict between sales and operations, a shared core value of “customer satisfaction” can guide both departments toward a collaborative solution.
5. Long-Term Strategic Decisions
Short-term gains can often tempt organizations away from their principles. But those with clear values make strategic decisions that are sustainable, ethical, and aligned with their mission.
💡 Example: A tech company committed to privacy might forgo lucrative data-selling opportunities to stay aligned with its value of user trust.
The Ripple Effect of Values-Based Decisions
“Decisions guided by values leave legacies guided by purpose.” – Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat
Core values don’t just affect immediate decisions—they ripple through communities, generations, and industries. When leaders live their values, they inspire others to do the same. This creates ecosystems of trust, productivity, and innovation.
Implementing Core Values in Everyday Life
To let values drive your decisions:
- Identify your top 3-5 personal or organizational values.
- Articulate them clearly in written and verbal formats.
- Align goals, processes, and actions with these values.
- Evaluate past and future decisions based on alignment.
- Adapt but don’t abandon your values as situations evolve.
A Global Call to Action
In my global journey—from founding the BAB Group of Companies to creating the 28COE ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs across 197+ countries—I’ve witnessed the power of core values firsthand. Nations rise, families thrive, and companies succeed when decisions are rooted in ethics, clarity, and character.
Let us recommit to living and leading with values. Because when we do, we’re not only making decisions—we’re shaping a better, more meaningful world.
Final Thought
In an era of constant disruption, core values are the unshakable foundation we stand upon. They guide us through uncertainty, differentiate us in crowded markets, and build trust in an often chaotic world.
If you haven’t yet defined your core values—as an individual or a brand—now is the time. Your future decisions depend on them.