Values inventory reveals hidden motivations for leaders
Coaches report that difficult career decisions for executives often stem from conflicting values and unacknowledged motivations.
Many executives face challenging career decisions that are less about information gaps and more about conflicting values. According to leadership coaches, unacknowledged "shadow values" can be key to understanding these struggles.
The process typically begins with identifying openly held principles like integrity, family, or excellence. This is followed by exploring less comfortable, yet influential, motivations such as recognition, status, financial security, authority, or stability. These shadow values are not inherently negative, but ignoring them can lead to inconsistency and decision paralysis.
One case study describes a physician who realized her drive for recognition, initially dismissed as narcissistic, significantly influenced her choices regarding prestigious committees and her responses to praise. Acknowledging this shadow value provided a clearer understanding of her own behavior and decisions.
Coaches explain that shadow values often originate from past adaptations that were necessary for success. The critical question is not whether these values exist, but whether they still serve the individual constructively. Instead of self-criticism, a curious approach is encouraged: understanding the origin of the value and whether it warrants the same influence today.
Self-awareness involves identifying, not eliminating, uncomfortable motivations. When facing a difficult decision, it is advised to ask: What motivation have I been unwilling to admit is influencing this choice? The answer may not change the options, but it can significantly alter how they are evaluated.