We’ve always believed that forming a strategy is impossible until you’re clear on what your values and principles are. Without values and principles to guide you, making decisions can seem impossibly difficult. Given how important setting values and principles is to decision making we asked folks we admire to tell us about the values or principles that matter most to them.

Tyreq Miles | Artist

Integrity is a crucial principle to me because it fosters trust and respect, both in personal and professional relationships. It’s about being honest, consistent, and reliable, even when no one is watching. Living with integrity means aligning your actions with your values, which helps create a strong foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling life. Read more>>

The Honorable Jacquie Baly | Commission Chairperson/Policy Advisory/Professor/Doctoral Candidate, USC/Philanthropist/Mother & Wife

Integrity is the cornerstone of everything Jacquie does. In her multifaceted roles as a public affairs consultant, professor, philanthropist, mother, wife, and public official, she places unparalleled value on being truthful and principled. This commitment shapes her interactions, decisions, and actions in every aspect of her life. For Jacquie, staying aligned with her core values isn’t just important—it’s essential for making a significant, lasting impact. Whether she’s advocating for clients, teaching the next generation of leaders, or spearheading charitable initiatives, her dedication to integrity serves as her compass. It enables her to approach complex challenges with a clear purpose, maintaining a consistent dedication to serving others effectively. Jacquie’s unwavering commitment to integrity does more than build trust and respect in her various relationships; it also inspires others to embrace honesty and authenticity in their own pursuits. Read more>>

Heather Newsom | Fine art and portrait photographer. Owner of Native Seven Photography

A person’s values are, in my opinion, their most important attribute. Whether you are an educator, influencer, small business owner or the owner of a large corporation, your values or guiding principles are the compass to every decision you make. If you do not value people or don’t have a strong work ethic, then your clients will not feel valued. Customer service is at the core of my values. I live by the golden rule of, “treat others as you would like to be treated”. This idea actually comes from the Gospel of Luke in the Christian Bible. This idea is not always easy, but in the end, it will be worth it. Dealing with people can be messy; there will be misunderstandings, disappointments or miscommunication, but I do what I can to be upfront with all the details and if I make a mistake, I will do what I can to make it right. Read more>>