Lesson Objectives

• Make sense of why the gap between our aspirational values and the values we actually practice is where we often struggle to maintain our integrity and where disengagement most often happens.
• Explore the actual gaps between our aspirational values and practiced values and develop strategies for staying aligned with our values through daily practices.
• Develop our own manifesto to set intentions around our values and the daily practices that support those values.

Reading Assignment

Daring Greatly - Chapters 5, 6 and 7

Lesson: Mind the Gap

Previously, we identified several of our most important core values. Now, let’s explore the gap between our aspirations and our practice of these values.

This process is not about beating ourselves up for things not done. Instead it is about identifying where we are out of alignment with our values and exploring how we can begin to remedy that.

Answer the following questions:

01. How have you armored up in a way that is not consistent with your values?

02. What behavior are out of alignment with your aspired values?

03. What are some of the potential challenges you fave if you don't close the divide between your practiced values and your aspired values?

04. Finally, if you do close the divide and "walk the talk,"what positives could result?

Exercise: Manifesto

Definition of manifesto: A written statement declaring publicly your intentions, motives, or views.

Origin of manifesto: From the Latin manifestus – to manifest, to clearly reveal, to make real; first known use was in 1620.

Why have a manifesto?

To remind you in one powerful statement of who you really are and how you want to make a difference.

To help you stay true to your core values and act on them.

To gain the opportunity to be vulnerable and connect with those you love by sharing your manifesto with them.

Look at the statements below. Which ones resonate most with you? Answer those statements and start writing your manifesto. Use action words and strong declarations. Your manifesto can be as short or as long as it needs to be.

The values that guide me in my effort to show up and be seen are . . .

I stand for . . .

I am most curious about . . .

I must do something about . . .

I am most passionate about . . .

I have the courage to . . .

I love . . .

In my heart of hearts, I . . .

I am on this planet to . . .

I will love myself by . . .

I will dare greatly by . . .

01. What is your daring manifesto?

Incorporate creative elements into your manifesto when it’s done: color, photos, art, or a manifesto anthem can bring it even more to life. Hang it on a wall. Share it with those you trust, and ask for their support.