Have you ever thought about the people you admire?
What values do they embody? Creativity, freedom, energy, dynamism, challenges, and independence are often celebrated, but what do these values really mean, and how do they shape our lives?
Values aren’t material possessions or obligations; they’re guiding principles that accompany you throughout your life, often subconsciously. Have you ever felt uneasy after making a decision but couldn’t quite pinpoint why? It’s likely because you acted against your core values without realizing it. Values can be abstract—like “freedom”—and mean different things to different people. For instance, what does freedom mean to you? How does your definition differ from someone else’s?
What do values have to do with your career?
Let’s look at someone who built an extraordinary career by aligning it with her values. In 2010, a 21-year-old named Lilly Singh—now globally known as IISuperwomanII—decided to drop out of university and start creating comedic videos on YouTube, despite the uncertainty and her parents’ disapproval. This was during a time when the global financial crisis made job prospects grim for many young graduates, let alone for someone without a degree.
Singh chose to follow her heart, recognizing how she could use her creativity and empathy to contribute positively to others. She wanted to be a joyful individualist who inspires and connects with people, making a difference in the world. By aligning her career with her core values, she built not just a job, but an empire.
How IISuperwomanII embodies her values
At the start, Singh faced significant challenges, including struggles with depression. However, her commitment to her values fueled her journey. Today, she has over 14 million subscribers on YouTube and has collaborated with major figures like Bill Gates, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Michelle Obama. She launched a campaign against girl-on-girl hate, supported girls’ education in Kenya and India, released a film, worked with UNICEF, published a New York Times bestselling book, and will soon host her own television talk show.
Over time, Singh’s values have evolved, reflecting shifts in her career focus. Initially, individuality and self-care were her top priorities. However, as she grew, empathy and connection with others took center stage. Recently, her focus has circled back to her original values, illustrating how our priorities shift as we change and grow. It’s essential to align your evolving values with your career, even when it’s challenging.
