Truths

For those that are not familiar with the US Military each service has a set of core values.  The US Coast Guard lives by: Honor, Respect and Devotion to Duty. Any Coastie will attest that these principles can be applied to any aspect of all USCG jobs, and, for that matter, to anything in life.  I think there is an important lesson to be gleaned here.

The core values promoted by the USCG provide a framework from which it is possible to achieve tremendous things.  Without this framework I don't think it would be possible to complete daring rescues, endure months at sea or effectively react to homeland security threats.  What we can learn from the USCG is that having a set of core values, or, what I like to refer to as core 'truths' in the civilian sector, is a necessary platform to achieving greatness.

Easier said that done, right?  Yep.  It can take months and potentially years to create an initial set of core truths. In fact, core truths can and will change/evolve with time, age, perspective and wisdom. This is a good thing!  It means you are living life, analyzing your experiences and adjusting accordingly.

Here is a good place to start if this idea seems foreign:  Creating core truths is about being honest--honest with yourself.  The closer you can get to knowing you, the clearer your truths will become.  The goal is for you to determine what you think regardless of external criticism.  My best suggestion is to spend time by yourself--enjoy your own company.  Create the best environment for internal reflection.  Only you know what this entails.  Only you can make this happen.  Enjoy the process.



--Schmidty