Values Identifier | Burns Leadership Consulting

Values Identifier

Clarify what truly drives your decisions, behavior, and leadership approach.

Most leaders can name their values. Few have done the work to define them precisely enough to use them. This tool moves you through a structured five-step process that takes your values from a general list to a personal leadership standard you can apply every day.

Plan for 20 to 30 minutes. There are no right answers. Be honest about what actually drives you, not what sounds good.

1
Generate
Browse a full list and select every value that resonates. Cast a wide net. You will narrow later.
2
Narrow
Force tradeoffs. Keep only the values you actually defend under pressure. Remove the rest.
3
Prioritize
Rank your top values in order. When two values conflict, your ranking tells you what wins.
4
Define
Translate each value into observable behavior. What it means to you, what it looks like in action, and what it does not look like.
5
Pressure Test
Reflect on where you are living your values well and where there is a gap. This is where the real work begins.

At the end you will receive a complete Values Profile you can download as a PDF and bring into your coaching or leadership work.

Generate Narrow Prioritize Define Test
Step 1 of 5

Generate a Broad List

Select every value that resonates with you. Include what matters in work and life. Aim for 10 or more before narrowing.

0 selected
Add a value not listed
Step 2 of 5

Narrow to Your Top 8–10

Force tradeoffs. Ask yourself: which of these do I defend under pressure? Which show up in my hardest decisions?

Keep the ones that are truly non-negotiable. Remove the rest.

Step 3 of 5

Prioritize Your Top 5

Rank in order of importance. When two values conflict, your ranking tells you what wins. Use the arrows to reorder.

Only your top 5 values move forward. Values ranked 6+ will not be included in your final profile.

Step 4 of 5

Define Each Value Behaviorally

This is the most important step. Turn each value into what it means, what it looks like in action, and what it does not look like.

Step 5 of 5

Pressure Test

Honest answers here are where the real work happens. Take your time.

Your Values Profile

These are your top 5 values, defined and ready to put to work in your leadership.

Values to Action

Value Key Behaviors Current Gap Action This Week