The Power of Shared Values
In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, professionals often find themselves in high-pressure positions where the focus on results can overshadow the need for genuine connection and self-reflection. Yesterday, I had the incredible opportunity to co-create a pop-up event with a wonderful friend Ausra that revolved around these concepts, centered around my newly developed STRIVE Cards.
This mini-workshop aimed to foster conversations about values, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in a professional setting. The pop-up workshop took place in a cozy yet inspiring venue in the heart of Amsterdam. The aim was to facilitate meaningful discussions that would allow attendees to explore and share their values in a supportive environment. At the heart of our workshop were the STRIVE Cards, designed as a tool for self-exploration and reflection, encouraging participants to delve into their core values.
Each card presents a different value—such as integrity, innovation, empathy, and resilience—along with thought-provoking prompts to spark discussions and personal insights. As Ausra introduced the idea for the workshop, we began the session. I introduced the concept of the cards and their purpose. Participants were invited to draw a card or two that resonated with them, whether it was a value they felt strongly about or one they wanted to explore further. The resulting excitement was palpable; the cards served as both conversation starters and mirrors reflecting their inner self. As the workshop progressed, affinity formed organically around shared values. Participants took turns sharing personal stories and experiences related to their chosen value, fostering an intimate atmosphere of trust.
Conversations were rich and layered, often leading to moments of vulnerability. I observed professionals who typically navigated the corporate landscape with composure now opening up about their struggles and triumphs. What struck me most was how quickly the walls came down. Vulnerability can feel risky in a corporate setting, where competition and performance metrics dominate the narrative.
However, the STRIVE Cards encouraged a different perspective—one that embraced candour and honesty as strengths rather than weaknesses. It was refreshing to witness the power of genuine dialogue, revealing the depth of connections that can form when we communicate openly. Throughout the workshop, the importance of authenticity emerged as a recurring theme. Participants shared how they often felt compelled to wear a facade in their professional lives. We explored how embracing authenticity can lead to better collaboration, increased morale, and overall job satisfaction. By aligning actions with values, professionals can cultivate an environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and trust—qualities essential for thriving in today’s corporate landscape.
As we wrapped up the workshop, I invited participants to reflect on their experiences with self-care. That brought yet another layer to the conversation about boundaries, and the importance of personal time and rituals. It was evident that taking time to connect and share is so important and having more focused prompts facilitated not only conversations about values but also a transformative experience for the individuals present. The pop-up event utilizing STRIVE Cards was more than just a workshop; it was a celebration of human connection in the world of corporate professionalism.
It reminded us that, amidst the demands of our roles, authentic conversations and vulnerability are not merely beneficial but essential. In a landscape that often prioritizes productivity over process, taking the time to engage in these discussions can lead to profound change. As we move forward, I am excited to continue exploring the impact of values-led conversations—not just within pop-up events, but as a core tenet of corporate culture. Together, we can strive for authenticity and create workplaces that honor both the individual and collective journeys of growth. After all, when we embrace vulnerability and engage in meaningful conversations about our values, we cultivate a culture of understanding, trust, and genuine collaboration.