Explorer Log: Entry 9 -Reframing Directions and Decisions
How do you make decisions when the path ahead is uncertain? For years, I’ve worked with leaders who reference their “North Star”—that big, bold outcome or vision that guides their journey. Others talk about their values, the principles that shape their daily actions. But what happens when you bring both into focus?
Recently, I found myself wrestling with these questions. I was measuring my own compass by the success of my outcomes. If I hadn’t achieved a breakthrough, it felt like my internal guide was somehow lacking. Any potential driver seemed hollow if it didn’t deliver a tangible result. Maybe you’ve felt this too: a sense that your impact is diluted, your direction unclear, your priorities scattered.
But then a new possibility emerged. What if the North Star isn’t just an outcome? What if it’s also a set of values—a framework for how you show up, not just where you’re headed? And what if, instead of choosing between outcome and values, you could define both: a North Star to orient your journey, and a compass to guide your steps?
Here’s what I’ve learned:
The North Star—your desired outcome or vision—gives you clarity and motivation. It’s the “what” that pulls you forward, especially when the terrain gets rough.
The compass—your values and principles—shapes the “how.” It’s the steady guide that keeps you aligned with what matters most, even when the destination feels far away.
When both are clearly defined, something powerful happens. You gain the ambition and focus of outcome-driven leadership, without losing the integrity and adaptability that values provide. You can ask, “Does this move me closer to my North Star?” and, just as importantly, “Am I following my compass as I go?”
I recently completed a values exercise with my Chief Core group. My core values—fairness, curiosity, bravery, hope, humor, creativity, interbeing, responsibility, family, health & wellness—became more than words. They became the scaffolding for my decisions, the framework for my life. I can’t always control outcomes; life is too complex for that. But I can control how I approach things, the actions I take, the behaviors I role model.
So, if you’re feeling adrift or overwhelmed by the pressure to achieve, try defining both your North Star and your compass. Let your vision inspire you, and let your values guide you. In a world of uncertainty, this dual system offers both direction and meaning—clarity in chaos, and confidence in the journey.
⭐️ I am deeply invested in you being the best leader that you can be, and partner with clients on three things:
✅ Bringing calm to the chaos
✅ Having clarity in decision making
✅ Maintaining confidence in their leadership
That’s what you get when you work with me - ✨ calm, clarity, and confidence. Interested? Curious? Know someone who might benefit from this work? Let me know and let's explore, together.
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