Following graduation and right at the start of this pandemic, I had a lot of questions from myself and directed to me asking what I wanted to do with my career. I have general sense of what I want to do for the world, but not in what specifically I want to do to achieve it. While my identified top values have changed over the years, many larger themes have stayed the same: giving back to my community, seeking challenges, and being open-minded.
Recently, I tried to articulate my values again using an exercise from UBC’s Centre for Student Involvement and Careers, which you can find here. In the end, I landed on Compassion, Growth, and Joy. What has changed is that this time, my articulated values are not tied to any one role or to any expectations placed upon me by others. They are well and truly what I think are and have always been core to who I am and what I want to be seen as in this world.
Compassion
Compassion refers to treating others right. It means being thoughtful of other people’s concerns; it means being dependable with tasks and being on time; and most importantly, it means standing up for myself and others. Compassion looks like being aware of unmet needs and doing my best to fulfill them. Compassion sounds like checking in with people and community agreements. Compassion feels like a hug from a friend or a deep breath before you speak up against issues.
Growth
Growth applies to both myself and others. I am dedicated to constantly improving, to being creative and open to new ideas, and to being up for a challenge when it comes my way. Growth also means that I consistently show up to support others in their growth. Growth looks like taking opportunities outside my comfort zone and encouraging others to do the same. Growth sounds like a lively discussion and “sure, why not?” Growth feels hard but oh so satisfying.
Joy
Joy means making spaces safe. It means creating a supportive environment, showing generosity, being thankful, and staying humble. Embodying Joy means that I bring enthusiasm to all the work that I do. Joy looks like smiling faces and relaxed shoulders. Joy sounds like asking for help and celebrating wins together. Joy feels like a warmth in my chest and a skip in my step when I head to work.
May I work and play in ways that engage each of these values in 2021 and beyond.