Walking the talk is hard, but crucial
Living Our Values
Walking the talk is more than just a popular saying. It's a principle that embodies integrity, authenticity, and accountability. Mastering the art of aligning what we say with what we do can be hard, but it is essential for deep inner happiness.
When we say one thing and do another, we suffer. Wether we do it consciously or unconsciously, the incongruence harms our sense of self-integrity and inner harmony. It creates a discord between our values and actions, leading to guilt, resentment, self-hate, generalized inner conflict, and ultimately can lead to depression or other forms of suffering.
By recognizing these inconsistencies, we can begin the journey towards alignment, paving the way for personal growth, fulfillment, and a sense of wholeness within ourselves. Walking the talk isn't about external appearances; it's about nurturing a deep sense of integrity and authenticity that resonates within us and shines through our actions.
Embarking on the journey towards alignment with our values can feel perplexing initially. It's beneficial to recognize the behaviors that may be hindering us from that alignment. To help you do that, here are a few examples that illustrate what it means to fail at embodying your principles:
Championing gender equality, but being employed by a company that perpetuates patriarchal structures and values;
Advocating for animal rights, yet consuming animals;
Valuing fairness, and working for a company that’s unjust in their actions;
Advocating for sustainability, yet being employed by a profit-driven company that prioritizes growth over sustainability;
Promoting diversity and inclusion, but not challenging discriminatory comments or behaviors;
Valuing honesty, but telling “white lies”;
Preaching work-life balance, but consistently working overtime and neglecting personal well-being;
Cherishing compassion, yet choosing unsupportive environments that lack empathy and neglect collective well-being;
Advocating for mental health awareness but stigmatizing seeking therapy or professional help.
Recognizing the incongruities between values and actions is crucial on the path towards authenticity. It's essential to acknowledge these discrepancies with compassion and self-awareness, understanding that change takes time and effort. By confronting the contradictions head-on, we open the door to realigning our behaviours with our deeply held beliefs. Now, let's explore three actionable steps to help bridge the gap between intention and action
3 steps to help you walk your talk:
Be clear about your values and beliefs. Understanding what matters most to you forms the foundation for your actions. Otherwise, you’re walking blind. Identify which values guide you, and make decisions that serve those values. Watch your values shape your words and actions.
Set clear goals and intentions that reflect your values. Define what walking the talk looks like in specific areas of your life - relationships, career, health, personal development, etc. Having a roadmap helps you stay focused and committed to living in alignment with your principles.
Practice self-awareness and reflection regularly. Evaluate your actions against your values and assess where there may be gaps or inconsistencies. Be open to feedback and willing to course-correct when needed.
Remember, walking the talk isn't about perfection but about genuine effort and commitment. By cultivating authenticity, staying true to your values, and demonstrating integrity through your actions, you can inspire others and lead by example in living a purposeful and meaningful life.