The 5 Simple Core Values That Changed How I Make Every Decision

Ever notice how the hardest part of life isn’t the big challenges…

But deciding what to do when the right path isn’t clear?

That’s where I used to get stuck.

For years, I leaned on seven personal “truths” to guide me:

1. Aim for improvement

2. Be mindful of yourself and the world around you

3. Contentment + forgiveness + self-reliance = freedom

4. Do good, see good, expect good

5. Everything is connected and constantly changing

6. Fairness, kindness, respect

7. Give and let live

They worked.

But something was missing.

Then I read The Four Agreements, and it changed how I saw everything.

Not because my old values were wrong.

In fact, my first one, “aim for improvement,” made me realize I could improve those too.

So, I did.

I reworked them into something simpler. Something that actually felt like me.

Here’s what I came up with:

Speak impeccably.

Be honest. Don’t trash talk yourself or others. Watch both your inner and outer dialogue.

Ignore offense.

Don’t take things personally. It’s not about you - it’s about them.

Make no assumptions.

Assumptions create confusion and mistakes. Be clear about what you mean, and clarify what others mean.

Put forth your best.

Perfection isn’t the goal. Just do the best you can with what you have today, and keep improving.

Love and let live.

Spread love. Let people live their own way.

And finally, the acronym SIMPL(E): Keep things simple.

This new version feels right.

It lines up with how I want to live my life.

But here’s the bigger point: Everyone should define their own core values.

Because once you do, decisions get easy.

When you’re stuck at a crossroads, just ask:

Which option best aligns with my values?

That’s it.

No overthinking. No second-guessing.

Just alignment.

Do you have your own set of core values?

Take a few minutes today and write them down.

You’ll be surprised how much clarity that simple act can bring.