Values Based Decision-Making

An individual's personal, organizational, and cultural values are the foundation of their personal and professional decision-making cycle. These values form the core of that individual's moral fabric, and his actions and decisions are predicated on those beliefs. Shalom H. Schwartz defined values as "conceptions of the desirable that guide the way social actors (e.g. organizational leaders, policy-makers, individual persons) select actions, evaluate people and events, and explain their actions and evaluations" (Schwartz, 1999, pp. 24-25). Because values drive the way individuals select actions, this paper will outline how my personal, organizational, and cultural values affect my decision-making.
Personal Values
Personally, I hold numerous values essential, most notably respect, responsibility, and honesty. These values routinely affect my decision-making in my personal life. I believe individuals must live by the golden rule, "treat others as you want them to treat you" (Luke, p. 6:31). I incorporate this simple advice into all decisions I make both personally and professionally. By asking myself such a simple question, I am able to make a better decision because using the golden rule ensures that I show respect for myself and others in my decisions.
The value of responsibility heavily influences my decision-making process as a husband. In addition to being responsible for my actions, I am also responsible for my family. Making an irresponsible decision can damage the trust that is the basis of my marriage. In my job as an Army officer I must make responsible decisions. I have a responsibility to my nation, soldiers, and their families to make good decisions. Flawed, irresponsible decisions in my profession could cause death, harm, or an international incident. Being a responsible leader leads to trust, honor, and loyalty within an organization, values that are consistent with and essential for military service (Fritzsche, 1995).
The value of honesty

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