BBB 18: Tapping Into the Power of Values in Your Organizations & Communities

Why Values Shape How We Lead, Connect, and Communicate

What truly drives human behavior?

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and the Brain, we explore a question that opens doors in relationships, workplaces, and communities: “What’s important to you and why?” At the heart of effective communication and leadership lies one powerful concept, core values.

Understanding what matters to people goes beyond surface-level goals. When we tap into the deeper values that shape identity and decisions, we foster connection, build trust, and shift how we lead and engage with others.

Values Are the Core of Human Motivation

Values are not just abstract ideas, they’re the internal compass that guides how we speak, act, and interact.

When people feel unheard or misunderstood, it’s often because no one is listening for their core values. These aren’t temporary interests or trends. They’re enduring beliefs about what’s right, meaningful, or worth fighting for.

“Much of what motivates us to speak, do, and act the way we do is coming from deeper core values, and they get formed early in life.”

Surface Values vs. Core Values

Think of values as an iceberg. Surface values might be the visible goals, status, productivity, or success. But underneath lie the core values, autonomy, safety, belonging, respect, and purpose, that give those goals meaning.

Understanding this distinction helps us lead with more empathy. When we assume everyone shares the same goals without asking why, we miss the chance to connect authentically.

Listening With Care: The Real Superpower

In leadership and community building, listening isn’t just about hearing words, it’s about listening for what matters.

“When you’re speaking into their values, you’re speaking into what motivates them.”

When we pair knowledge with compassion, we stop performing and start relating. Whether in a team meeting or one-on-one conversation, genuinely caring about someone’s core values communicates: I see you. You matter.

Values Change as Life Changes

It’s important to remember that core values evolve. Milestones like becoming a parent, losing a loved one, or surviving burnout can shift what once mattered most.

As leaders, friends, and community members, we must regularly ask, and re-ask, what matters to the people around us. Doing so not only builds connection but creates space for change and growth.

Helpful Reminders for Tapping Into Core Values

Ask deeper questions: Instead of “What do you want?” ask “Why does that matter to you?”
Listen for patterns: Core values often repeat through a person’s stories.
Acknowledge and reflect: Show that you understand by mirroring what you hear. “It sounds like fairness is really important to you, did I get that right?”

The Power of Values in Your Organizations

In a divided world, core values can serve as our greatest bridge to understanding. Even if we don’t share the same views, we can find common ground when we seek to understand why people care about what they care about.

Want to transform your organization or community culture? Start by asking:
“What’s important to you, and why?”

Because once we understand what drives others, we create the space for real connection, collaboration, and healing.

Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne

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