James Pennebaker, a professor at the University at Texas, has spent 40 years researching the link between writing and processing emotions. In studies, he has divided people into two groups, asking some to jot down emotionally charged experiences, and others to write about whatever daily occurrence popped into their mind. Both groups were tasked with writing for about 20 minutes, three days in a row.

Roy E. Disney of Walt Disney Co., said, “When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.”

So, if you don’t use your values to make decisions and guide your actions, then why have them? If you do not value your values, no one else will. Your decisions directly influence how you spend your precious resources—time, money, and energy. How you spend your precious resources is a direct reflection of your values. A look at your calendar and your expense budget gives an accurate glimpse into what you value.

Thomas Jefferson said, “In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.”

Being an inspiring coach is as much about who you are as it is about what you do. Your character is rooted in  your values, those things that are vital to you and reflect your uniqueness and priorities. Your values, not your circumstances or fleeting feelings, should dictate your decisions and behavior. Your values about people and performance should guide your approach to coaching your team.