Values Quotes

It is easier to fight for one’s principles than to live up to them.

Integrity is: What we say What we do And What we say we do.

In matters of style, swim with the current; In matters of principle, stand like a rock.

If you want to live a long life, focus on making contributions.

If you have not discovered something you feel like giving your life for, you have not yet begun living your life.

I care not what others think of what I do, but I care very much about what I think of what I do! That is character!

I ain’t what people call you. It’s what you answer to.

Hold yourself responsible to a higher standard than anyone expects of you. Never excuse yourself.

Every action that you do is, in some sense, like a ritual that celebrates the values that you hold.

A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.

There are three distinct domains of human action: 1. The Domain of Positive Law (Rules that are binding on us because they are written into law) 2. The Domain of Free Choice 3. The Domain of Obedience to the Unenforceable (The responsible, right, noble things to do based on values of trust, integrity, competence, and compassion)

GUARDING THE WALLS In ancient China, the people desired security from the barbaric hordes to the north; so they built the great Chinese wall. It was so high they knew no one could climb over it and so thick that nothing could break it down. They settled back to enjoy their security. During the first hundred years of the wall’s existence, China was invaded three times. Not once did the barbaric hordes break down the wall or climb over the top. Each time they bribed a gatekeeper and then marched right through the gates. The Chinese were so busy relying upon the walls of stone that they forgot to teach integrity to their children.

How to be “Culture Smart”: – Learn about differences – Look for commonalties – Avoid stereotypical thinking – Know your own culture – Communicate respect – Empathize, don’t patronize – Be your best self – Trust your instincts – Practice “personal correctness” – Expect the best

John Steinbeck in his book “Of Mice and Men” pointed out the decline in moral values when one of his characters commented, “There’s nothing wrong anymore.”

Tell the TRUTH: A man came across a rare antique desk. He “bargained” to get the best price, telling them he only really wanted the legs, not disclosing the true value of the object. After striking an agreement, he arranged to pick up the desk the next day. When he arrived, he found that they had cut the table in pieces! “Why?” he asks. “Well,” they reply, “We noticed you had a very small car and thought that it would be difficult for you to put the whole desk in, so, since you really only wanted the legs anyway….”