My Values in Life Personal Essay

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Introduction

My values in life.

Personal values are qualities that one considers to be worthwhile and, as such, act as the driving force in their life. They take precedence over other qualities and therefore dictate the manner in which an individual may behave in particular instances. When it comes to my values in life, I have a few that I hold dear.

These values are a result of my upbringing, development, my principles, as well as my socialization and the culture around me. In this “my values in life” essay, I shall identify the core beliefs that I hold and how they influence my everyday choices, actions, and plans that I make.

One of the educational values that are fundamental to me is achievement. This is a result of my belief that what defines me most as a person is my determination to succeed and my desire to make a positive contribution to society through my career. Achievement is, therefore, one of the values that are most important to me since, in today’s world, achievement and success are mostly tied together with educational success. As a result of this, I hold my educational exploits in high esteem since education is one of the avenues where one’s determination leads to quantifiable success.

I greatly value close relationships with my friends and constantly seek to cement the same. This is because good friends can assist one in achieving his/her goals in life and can sometimes even be closer than family. For this reason, I invest a lot of time and effort in my close friends. I make it a priority to be a part of the significant moments in my friends’ lives, such as their birthdays, wedding days, and even baby christening ceremonies. In addition to this, I always ensure that I inquire as to their well beings periodically.

Growth and personal development for me is a very fundamental value, and its importance in my life cannot be understated. It is my belief that my life is not worth much if I do not strive to constantly improve on my achievements as well as in becoming a better person. This value of personal growth and development greatly impacts my daily living, especially when establishing new relations. It is generally my rule that if a new relationship does not add any value to my life, then I should not waste my time exploring it.

One of the constant realities in human life is that we will always be surrounded by needy people. As such, on a social level, I always strive to give my services to the less fortunate. In my opinion, a life well lived is one that is lived in such a way that it makes a difference to someone else’s life. This is the philosophy with which I have led my life up to this point, and at all times, I try to make a difference in the lives of the people that surround me. Helping other people is, therefore, a value that I value not only in myself but also in other people.

While modern-day living has somewhat led to a degradation of the value of family from what it used to be in gone years, I still hold the value of family to be very important in my life. To me, one’s family members are the ones who will stand by you no matter the situation and encourage you through life’s troubles.

While I reckon that family may not always be supportive or as ideal as I envision it, in my experience, my family is closely knit and always stands up for me. I, therefore, always have my family in mind when making my decisions and consider how my actions will affect them. In addition, I try to seek guidance from members of the family who are more experienced than I am before making monumental decisions in my life.

It has been argued that honest men and women are a dying breed. This statement holds true in our capitalistic society, where profits and personal gains are the primary objectives. The means by which one achieves success is often overlooked, and as such, the ends justify the means.

Even in the midst of such an environment, I still hold honesty as one of my core values. This is mostly a result of my upbringing, whereby honesty was applauded and dishonesty shunned. Also, I have come to realize that when one achieves success through honesty, the level of satisfaction that comes with it is truly unrivaled by any other feeling.

Owing to my upbringing, I have a huge regard for religion. As such, one of my spiritual values is engaging myself in some religious organizations. While it is true that most of my religious values are a result of my upbringing, I have, over time, come to embrace them as my own and therefore make it my personal duty to be actively involved in my religious organization.

To me, this brings about a sense of balance and helps me be more reflective and appreciative in my life. My religious values impact my decision-making since I try not to make choices that are contrary to my religious beliefs.

In this paper, I have identified some of the values that I hold dear to me. I have also identified how these values impact the choices that I make as well as the actions that I take. From this deep exploration of my values, I have come to the realization that my values greatly dictate how I treat the people around me as well as how I prioritize matters. I believe that as a result of my values, I strive harder to achieve the things that I want in life, and as such, I am a better person as a result of them.

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IvyPanda. (2018, July 15). My Values in Life. https://ivypanda.com/essays/my-values-in-life/

"My Values in Life." IvyPanda , 15 July 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/my-values-in-life/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'My Values in Life'. 15 July.

IvyPanda . 2018. "My Values in Life." July 15, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/my-values-in-life/.

1. IvyPanda . "My Values in Life." July 15, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/my-values-in-life/.

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My Moral Values

Introduction.

In the context of personal character, values are intangible qualities that are regarded as worth possessing due to their usefulness, importance or desirability. Virtually all values are morally relative in the sense that a particular value may seem good and beneficial to one person and yet be outright bad or inimical to others. So, values can be moral or otherwise depending on who is making the judgment. Moral values refer to a set of positive standards and principles that tend to guide or determine how a person distinguishes right from wrong, thus regulating his behaviours and choices. Great moral values have one thing in common – they dignify, enhance and protect life for the good of all.

What determines a person’s moral values?

There are three major sources from which we derive our moral values. One of these is from society and government. The customs, cultures and traditions of society as well as the laws enacted by governments all together shape and define the moral values of individuals within the community, whether we are looking at a small town, state, nation or the global community. Events as well as cultural and legal changes inevitably result in changes in the general moral value. Another source of moral value is religion, ideology or creed. The belief system or philosophical leanings of individuals leave in them a set of codes and list of dos and don’ts which shape and concretize their sense of good and evil, right and wrong. In spite of some of its variants with contradictory showings, Christianity rises well above all other religions and philosophies in going beyond a system of dos and don’ts, emphasizing a vital relationship with God through His Son and setting moral values that clearly transcend society’s mores and man’s selfish instincts. A final source from which moral value is derived is from within one’s own self. There is an innate, instinctive tendency to, from within one’s self, distinguish right from wrong. Evidence of this is ably demonstrated by toddlers who watch their parent before going for or against an instruction. As knowledge increases and an individual grows from childhood to adulthood, he strengthens his ability to make choices between the forbidden and acceptable, kind or cruel, generous or selfish, from within his own self. This ability, though untaught, is usually modified or tamed by the earlier two sources of moral values.

My moral values have been largely influenced by my family upbringing, that is, what my parents taught me while growing up and my strong Christian faith. In addition to this, however, there is considerable contribution from my education, personal experience, my appreciation of how government works and cultural integration in our global village of diverse but same humanity. It may not be possible to list them all but the core of my moral values are represented by these few: integrity, love, courage, respect, obedience, responsibility, kindness, fairness, humility, politeness and modesty.

Moral values are only truly valuable when put into action. The essence of knowing and cultivating fine moral values is not to hold them deep within but to put them into action whenever and wherever they are required.

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How Your Moral Principles Can Impact Your Life

Have you ever wondered why you make the decisions that you do? If you’ve experienced that uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach when you do something you know you’ll regret, it’s likely because of your moral principles, or your individual sense of right and wrong. 

Most people have a set of morals, with many having their morals at least partially tied to their culture, religion, or another external source (referred to as ethical principles). A sense of morality is one aspect of human behavior that sets us apart from other species, but it can vary greatly from one person to another. It may be helpful to explore your own moral principles, as they can influence various aspects of your life.

How moral principles impact your life

One definition of morals is, “the principles of right and wrong that are accepted by an individual or a social group”. As a general rule, we use morals to guide our individual actions. They help us make decisions based on what we feel is the “right” thing to do in a given situation. Without them, we would have little rhyme or reason for why we make the choices we do—or we’d only ever make choices that take our own needs into consideration. Our decisions would likely be impulsive and with little consideration for the consequences.

Our moral values often guide how we approach decision-making, address ethical dilemmas like conflict of interest, and implement professional standards like informed consent in patient care.

Making the effort to have a clear set of moral values can affect your behavior in many ways. You might be less easily influenced to act in ways that are contrary to your values, no matter the circumstances. You might be able to voice your opinions more readily, stand up for justice, and distance yourself from things that don’t match up with your own moral reasoning.

To put it another way, moral principles allow people to judge their own behaviors so that they can make changes as needed in order to feel that they’re doing the “right” thing—though some people might not have the same “rights” that you do, they’ll choose the best course of action depending on their individual values.

Furthermore, research over the years has demonstrated how central a set of morals is to who we are. One study found that “moral character” is the most important element of “impression formation” when we’re getting to know someone new. Another study involved five experiments which led researchers to declare that moral traits “are considered the most essential part of identity, the self, and the soul,” more than any other mental faculty. In other words, our morals are a fundamental part of our nature and how we interact with others. You can take a morality test for fun to get a glimpse of your morals.

Examples of moral principles

You can think of moral principles as a set of guidelines that help us decide how to handle ethical issues and other situations that may arise in life. Here are a few generally accepted examples of principles a person might hold:

  • Treat others the way you want to be treated and show them respect. This principle means taking the time to empathize with others and trying to see things through their eyes. While autonomy may be important, you can’t always do exactly what you want. This principle involves thinking about the situation someone else is in and considering what you’d want someone to do for you if the roles were reversed. Doing so can help strengthen equality in our country, a vital characteristic of a healthy society. 
  • Speak the truth. Honesty may help us speak up for what we want and give others the information they need to make decisions for themselves. A principle of virtue like this means that you strive to avoid lying, whether to yourself or others.
  • Don’t spend what you don’t have. Moral principles can even apply to how you handle your finances. These could include donating regularly to good causes, avoiding loaning money to friends so as to not complicate relationships, or not spending what you don’t have. This last one might entail living within a budget and doing your best to stay out of debt. While it may be tough, you can also benefit from having a thrifty lifestyle. 
  • Keep your word. Your word should have meaning, and following through with what you say you’re going to do is another example of a moral principle. This might include honesty, but also not making promises that you can’t keep. Sticking to your word can prevent harm, both to your reputation and to your relationships. 

The above are some common examples, but moral principles are personal—something you decide for yourself. If you’re setting out to choose what yours might be, the examples listed here can at least give you a starting point. Think about how you want to approach or handle relationships, conflict, fairness, finances, etc., or the type of person you want to be when faced with hard situations in any of these realms. That exercise can guide you toward the moral principles that feel right for you.

How to be accountable: Moral principles

Sticking to the moral code you’ve set for yourself can help you live a life that’s authentic to you. Remember, however, that no human being is perfect. We’re all bound to fall short of our morals from time to time, but having them in place reminds us of what to strive for next time. To help further your moral development, consider some of the following tactics.

Set written goals

Research shows that you’re 42% more likely to achieve your goals if you write them down, so you can harness this fact to help you stick to your morals. Keeping a journal of what your goals are and how you’re progressing toward them can help you focus on accountability. For instance, you might want to perform one random act of kindness per week to practice empathy, be honest about personal boundaries when dating someone new, or save a certain amount from every paycheck. You can write each of these moral goals down and make notes regularly on how you’re coming along.

Listen to your instincts

Another method is to stay in touch with your gut instincts. An individual’s identity can determine when they listen to their “gut”. When you’re about to do something that, deep down, you feel is wrong in the context of your principles, think twice. Our gut instincts may be trying to tell us that something about the situation we’re in doesn’t fit our personal moral code.

Speak with a therapist

Finally, you may find it useful to speak with a therapist. While they’re not there to decide your moral code for you, they can help you get in touch with your true self and your beliefs so that you can draw conclusions about what your morals might be. They can help you examine the moral principles that parents or caregivers passed down to you, which may be outdated or based on a problematic part of history. These conversations can help you decide whether you want to keep them as part of your own code. They can also help you deal with any perfectionism you may have in regard to morality, and learn to forgive yourself. Whatever challenges you may be facing, a trained therapist can offer a nonjudgmental, unbiased space for you to explore and work through them.

Today, there are a variety of different ways in which you can connect with a mental health professional. Some find virtual therapy to be the best option for them. A 2020 study suggests that it can be just as effective as traditional face-to-face counseling, making it a “viable alternative.” Researchers also found that online therapy had other added benefits too, including “lower cost, no travel time, no waitlists, and trackable progress”. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed therapist with whom you can meet via phone or video call and check in via chat. Remember: The best therapy method for you is the one that’s available and that you feel the most comfortable with.

Need help making decisions that align with your moral principles? Click here to get guidance from a therapist

Counselor reviews.

Read on for reviews of BetterHelp counselors who have helped people in similar situations.

“I’ve been working with Alicia for about 7 months now, and I can’t recommend her enough. She is unbelievably smart and yet filled with warmth, she’s non-judgmental but still able to see negative patterns, she gives solid frameworks and solutions when I need them, and is a listening ear when I need that. Alicia doesn’t just deal with the subject matter at hand, she remembers things I’ve told her weeks prior, small names or details or passing comments, and points out patterns I hadn’t noticed, helping me re-frame my own thoughts and behaviors, all while showing how much she’s really listening and paying attention. It makes me feel like I’m talking to a friend. One personal example of her intuitive spirit is what she said to me in my very first session with her which has stuck with me since that day. I told how “broken” I felt after my last couple roles in rather toxic work environments. And after telling why I had left those companies, mostly dealing with bosses/ colleagues who were bullies, dishonest and manipulative people who did a lot of damage, Alicia pointed out that I am not, in fact, broken, as the reason I left those companies was always the same – my deep rooted values of kindness and honesty would not allow me to be in that environment any longer, that my sense of self from a moral perspective had remained the same when many people bend their morals to succeed in stressful work situations. This reframing of the narrative I had been telling myself from the moment I quit changed everything for me, and she had known me for 45 minutes. For anyone on the fence about therapy and its benefits, Alicia is the empathetic soul we all need in our lives.”

my personal moral principle in life essay

“Oliver has helped me in many ways despite our relatively short time working together. He’s helped me gain a better outlook on the world, and he has helped me install some new philosophies and principles that I’ve found to be very useful in my day to day life and coping with everyday stress, as well as helping me and guiding me through some tough personal decisions, and working on myself and my behaviour.”

my personal moral principle in life essay

Moral principles can look different for everyone. Deciding on what yours will be can give you direction in life and help you make decisions. The tips on this list may help you in the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 7 moral principles? What are the six universal moral values?

What are the greatest moral values in life.

What are strong moral values? What are moral values in real life?

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Essay on Importance of Moral Values in Our Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Moral Values in Our Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of Moral Values in Our Life

Significance of moral values.

Moral values guide our behavior and choices. They help us distinguish between right and wrong.

Role in Personal Growth

Moral values like honesty, respect, and kindness aid in personal growth. They make us better individuals.

Influence on Society

Moral values ensure harmony in society. They promote cooperation and discourage negative behavior.

Impact on Future

Children with strong moral values grow into responsible adults. They contribute positively to the world.

250 Words Essay on Importance of Moral Values in Our Life

Introduction.

Moral values, the fundamental principles that guide our actions and behavior, play a crucial role in our lives. They serve as a compass, enabling us to distinguish right from wrong, and thus, shaping our personality and character.

The Foundation of Society

Moral values form the foundation of society. They foster unity and harmony, promoting social interactions that are respectful and considerate. Without moral values, societies can descend into chaos, with individuals acting solely on self-interest without regard for others.

Personal Development

Moral values are instrumental in personal development. They instill discipline, responsibility, and ethical conduct, thereby molding us into better individuals. Respect, honesty, kindness, and integrity, are not just mere words but values that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us.

Professional Success

In the professional world, moral values hold equal importance. Employers value individuals who demonstrate honesty, respect for others, and a strong work ethic. These qualities not only foster a positive work environment but also contribute to long-term success.

In conclusion, moral values are an indispensable part of our life. They guide our actions, shape our character, and influence our interactions with others. By adhering to these values, we can lead a fulfilling life, contribute positively to society, and secure professional success. The importance of moral values, therefore, cannot be overstated. They are the bedrock of a well-functioning society and a fulfilling life.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Moral Values in Our Life

Moral values are the principles that guide our actions, shape our personalities, and influence our behavior. They are the cornerstones of our character, dictating our reactions to various life situations. This essay will delve into the importance of moral values in our lives, illuminating their role in personal development, societal harmony, and global peace.

The Personal Sphere: Self-development and Integrity

Moral values play a pivotal role in personal development. They act as a compass, guiding us towards virtuous actions and decisions. Honesty, respect, responsibility, and kindness are just a few examples of these values that help in shaping our character. They enable us to distinguish between right and wrong, thereby facilitating ethical decision-making.

Integrity, a by-product of strong moral values, is a trait highly valued in every realm of life. It fosters trust and respect in personal and professional relationships, paving the way for success. Moreover, moral values instill a sense of purpose and direction, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Societal Sphere: Fostering Harmony and Cooperation

Moreover, moral values promote cooperation and altruism. They encourage individuals to work for the common good, fostering a sense of community. A society rooted in moral values is more likely to flourish, as its members are inclined to support and uplift each other.

Global Sphere: Promoting Peace and Sustainability

On a global scale, moral values form the bedrock of peace and sustainability. They promote the principles of justice, equality, and human rights, which are fundamental to peaceful coexistence. Countries that uphold these values are less likely to engage in conflicts and wars, ensuring a safer world.

Additionally, moral values like respect for nature and sustainability are critical in the face of environmental challenges. They inspire actions that protect our planet, ensuring a sustainable future for the generations to come.

In conclusion, moral values are of paramount importance in our lives. They shape our character, foster societal harmony, and promote global peace. They are not just abstract concepts but practical guides that steer our actions towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. It is, therefore, crucial to cultivate and uphold moral values, not just for our personal growth but for the betterment of society and the world at large.

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How to Write a Personal Ethics Statement—And Why Every Professional Should

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my personal moral principle in life essay

What is a Personal Ethics Statement?

Personal ethics are your guidelines for forming relationships, overcoming challenges, and decision- making. A personal ethics statement is a one-page essay that gives a picture of your core values and what potential supervisors, colleagues, or clients can expect from working with you. It can be useful when you’re applying for school , just starting out in your career, looking for a new job, trying to expand your client base, or advancing your career.  

In this article we will discuss personal ethics—which should not be mistaken for professional ethics. Personal ethics relate to the values you hold in personal relationships and daily life, an whereas professional ethics relate to how you conduct yourself in business settings, deals, and professional relationships.  

An important part of your personal ethics statement is identifying your personal beliefs and personal values. Some code of ethics examples include integrity, selflessness, honesty, loyalty, equality, fairness, empathy, respect, and self-respect. This article is a complete resource for forming your personal ethics and transforming them into a compelling personal ethics statement.

Professional Impacts of Personal Ethics

There are many occasions your personal ethics will play a role in your behavior in professional settings. No matter your line of work, it’s important that you maintain unshakable personal ethics in your professional relationships and how you interact in the workplace.

Business Ethics

Business ethics are the practices and policies put into place to ensure people and resources are treated ethically in business dealings. While you’re making decisions in business to benefit a company, you must consider the impact of those decisions on others. Developing your personal code of conduct will help support you in upholding your company policies in the workplace, which will help you maintain personal integrity, as well as avoid potential business scandals . Learn about how to be an ethical leader in a business setting.

With a career in information technology, part of your job involves having access to private or confidential information. Your moral compass plays a significant role in keeping this type of information safe, especially since cyber-attacks—which happen every 39 seconds on average—are so prevalent in modern society. Having a career in IT immerses you in the world of cyber security , where ethical behavior and policy adherence are essential.

Healthcare Ethics

In the healthcare field, you’re responsible for human lives, so it’s no wonder that strong professional competence and integrity are important in how you carry yourself at work. There are plenty of complex issues, regulations, and compliance policies that you’ll encounter in a hospital or care facility, which demands that you seek the guidance of your personal ethics.

Teaching Ethics

Strong moral values are a necessary component of being a teacher. When your job is to sculpt young minds, you have must take responsibility for setting a strong example for them. Part of this is keeping students safe, part of this is treating all students equally and without discrimination. Part of this is creating healthy boundaries between your students and your personal life . If you build a personal ethics statement, you have a north star to look towards in this professional setting as you encounter ethical dilemmas. If you’re planning to become a teacher, you should also consider writing a teaching philosophy statement.

my personal moral principle in life essay

How Do I Write a Personal Ethics Statement?

There are five essential steps to writing—and perfecting—your personal ethics statement: 

1. Know your audience. 

The first step to writing an effective personal ethics statement is knowing and understanding the audience you’re writing for. This one-page piece of writing is supposed to influence the reader, so keeping the motivations and sentiments of your audience in mind while writing is important to completing your goal. Once you know your audience, whether it be an admissions counselor or a potential employer, then you can choose words and reference practices and policies that resonate with them and meet any guidelines in place.  

2. Choose your goals. 

There are two important types of goals to think about when building your personal ethics statement: your short-term and long-term goals. For example, your short-term goal may be getting into college, while your long-term goal is becoming a software engineer. Once you identify these, then you can phrase your personal ethics in terms of how they relate to your desired career path. To build off the previous example, if you aspire to be a software engineer, you can talk about personal ethics that relate to cyber security or the hard work required to get to your desired goal. 

3. Determine your influences. 

What influences the decisions you make? This is an essential step in determining your code of ethics because every choice you make is influenced by internal and external factors. One factor that affects everyone is personal traits. Your personality plays a crucial role in the decisions you make and how you carry yourself with others. Another factor is the people in your life who have helped in shaping who you are today. A third example is momentous events. Everyone experiences wonderful, pivotal moments in their life, as well as tragic and traumatic moments. All these factors play a role in your personal ethics, and they should be included in your personal ethics statement. 

4. Identify your beliefs and practices. 

This step is about writing down examples of how you move through the world and the core beliefs you live by. Compelling stories elicit emotional reactions from your audience and prove that you put your personal ethics into daily practice. Examples are essential to creating a strong personal ethics statement. 

5. Name your “why.”  

Why did you choose the ethical principles that you did? Confidently answering this question and providing details is essential to the authenticity of the statement. Decide why your personal ethics are important to you, how your life experiences brought you to those ethics, and how you’ll continue to keep them at the center of your decisions going forward. This step is important to making sure your audience walks away with a clear understanding of what ethical standards are important to you and why. 

What Should I Include in a Personal Ethics Statement?

Your personal ethics statement should consist of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.  

Start your personal ethics statement with a one- to two-paragraph introduction. Use the introduction to talk about the life experiences that helped form your ethical background. Maybe you had a major injury in your childhood that resulted in lifelong ability differences, and this made you an advocate for accessibility. Find a personal story that will engage your reader and provide a foundation for your statement.

In the body of your personal ethics statement—about two or three paragraphs—you should list each of the ethical principles that are central in your life. This is your opportunity to make sure the reader knows your core beliefs. If you have a personal mantra, include it here. In this section, true life examples are your friend.

What Should I not Include in a Personal Ethics Statement?

Since a personal ethics statement is a deeply personal piece of writing, it’s important to be honest and authentic. The last thing you want to do is include fake life experiences just to make a point. This also isn’t an opportunity to profess all your life’s mistakes. You are human and your personal ethics statement should reflect that, but in a positive and inspiring light.  

How to Conclude

Every personal ethics statement should have a strong conclusion. Sum it all up in a final paragraph where you explain how your core values make you a great person to have in a professional organization or an excellent candidate for an academic program.

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Personal Ethics Statement Essay Example: Navigating Life with Integrity and Kindness

This personal ethics statement essay will outline the author’s core values and principles guiding their life choices and interactions. It will discuss the importance of integrity, kindness, responsibility, and respect in personal and professional contexts. The piece will illustrate how these ethical values influence decision-making, relationships, and the approach to challenges and opportunities. More free essay examples are accessible at PapersOwl about Personal Experience.

How it works

In the intricate tapestry of life, ethical principles serve as the guiding threads that weave together our actions, decisions, and relationships. A personal ethics statement is a testament to one’s moral compass, providing insight into the values and beliefs that shape individual choices. Personal ethics are the beacon that lights our path in the vast expanse of human existence. These are the unwritten rules, the silent vows we make to ourselves and others, shaping our decisions, behaviors, and interactions.

  • 1 The Genesis of Personal Ethics
  • 2 The Ripple Effect of Personal Ethics
  • 3 The Evolving Nature of Personal Ethics
  • 4 Conclusion

The Genesis of Personal Ethics

It’s fascinating to ponder where our ethics originate.

Are they the product of upbringing, experiences, cultural influences, or a combination of all these factors? Childhood plays a pivotal role in molding our ethical framework. The values instilled by family, the morals taught in school, and even the stories we heard as children converge to shape our understanding of right and wrong.

For instance, we share a toy with a sibling or apologize when bad teaches us fairness and accountability from a tender age. Society and cultural backgrounds, too, have a profound influence. Different cultures emphasize varied values – while some prioritize community and harmony, others value individualism and ambition. These societal values subtly seep into our psyche, guiding our actions and choices. While personal ethics are individualistic, they often resonate with universal moral principles acknowledged globally. Ethical tenets such as honesty, respect, and compassion are almost universally accepted. In a bustling metropolis or a remote village, directions find resonance, bridging language, culture, and tradition divides.

Yet, every individual adds a personal touch to universal ethics, tweaking them based on personal experiences, beliefs, and reflections. For example, while two people might value honesty, one might believe in absolute openness, while the other might prioritize kindness over brutal truth.

The Ripple Effect of Personal Ethics

One often overlooked aspect of personal ethics is its ripple effect in society. No matter how trivial it seems, each ethical choice sets a precedent. When individuals consistently act in alignment with their moral values, it creates an environment that encourages others to do the same. Moreover, our ethics shape our interactions in both personal and professional spheres, influencing relationships, work dynamics, and community engagements. By standing firm in our ethical beliefs, we inadvertently inspire others, creating a cascade of positive change. This shared commitment to values enriches communities, fostering trust, mutual respect, and cohesive bonds among its members. A personal ethics statement goes beyond a mere list of values; it delves into what makes an individual who they are, reflecting their profound convictions and the principles they hold dear. The philosophy of kindness has guided me since my earliest childhood memories. For me, compassion encompasses understanding, patience, and empathy. It’s not merely an act but a way of life, reflecting in every interaction, whether with a loved one or a stranger.

Moreover, integrity remains a cornerstone of my existence. Being true to oneself, honoring commitments, and standing up for what’s right, even in adversity, outlines my integrity contours. Values and principles gain true meaning when put into practice. Over the years, I’ve endeavored to imbue my actions with my cherished ethical principles. In an age where appearances often overshadow essence, authenticity has become a rare commodity. I strive to build trust and foster real connections by being genuine in my interactions. Life, in its infinite wisdom, offers myriad lessons. With humility as my guide, I constantly seek knowledge, valuing every experience as an opportunity to learn and grow.

The Evolving Nature of Personal Ethics

As with all things in life, personal ethics aren’t static. It evolves, adapts, and matures as we journey through varied experiences. While my core principles of kindness and integrity have remained steadfast, other nuances of my ethics have been shaped by experiences. Encounters with diverse individuals, exposure to varied cultures, and navigating life’s challenges have refined and enriched my ethical palette. A well-defined personal ethics statement guides one’s choices and profoundly impacts professional decisions. In the professional realm, my ethics translate into honoring deadlines, respecting colleagues, and maintaining transparency in dealings.

Furthermore, principles guide me when faced with tough decisions, ensuring I remain faithful to my core values. On the personal front, my ethics play a pivotal role in nurturing relationships. By practicing active listening, showing empathy, and being there for loved ones, I aim to cultivate deep, meaningful connections.

In conclusion, a personal ethics statement mirrors one’s soul, capturing the essence of one’s moral being. It reflects our deepest convictions, guiding us through life’s challenges and decisions. Understanding, refining, and living by this statement serves as an anchor in tumultuous times and shapes our interactions with the world. By adhering to our ethical compass, we enrich our lives and inspire and influence others, fostering a ripple effect of integrity and kindness in the broader community. Embracing and upholding our ethics paves the way for a life with purpose and authenticity.

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9 Ethical Behavior & Moral Values in Everyday Life

Ethical Behavior & Moral Values in Everyday Life

Ethics in Law Enforcement by Steve McCartney and Rick Parent https://opentextbc.ca/ethicsinlawenforcement/

The Importance of Ethical Behavior

For citizens, morality and integrity are important characteristics to demonstrate. We instinctively know that it is good to be moral and act with integrity, but by coming to an understanding of the reasons for morality and integrity, we will be motivated to champion such behavior. Among the reasons to be moral and integral are to:

  • Make society better.  When we help make society better, we are rewarded with also making better own lives and the lives of our families and friends. Without moral conduct, society would be a miserable place.
  • Treat everyone equally.  Equality is a cornerstone of most Western democracies, where all individuals are afforded the same rights. This is not possible without the majority of citizens behaving in a moral manner.
  • Secure meaningful employment.  Often employers will look at a person’ past behavior as a predictor of future behavior. Someone who has a history of immoral behavior will have difficulty securing employment in a meaningful job, as that person may not be trusted.
  • Succeed at business.  If you are employed in an occupation in which there you must rely on others, your moral conduct will determine the degree of goodwill that you receive from others. Businesses that have a checkered moral history are typically viewed with caution and are unlikely to attract new customers through word of mouth, and therefore are unlikely to prosper. This is especially the case where social media ­­makes customer reviews readily accessible.
  • Lessen stress.  When we make immoral decisions, we tend to feel uncomfortable and concerned about our decision making. Making the right moral decision, or taking a principled perspective on an issue, reduces stress.

Ultimately, ethics is important not so that “we can understand” philosophically, but rather so we can “improve how we live” (Lafollette, 2007). By being moral, we enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. It’s especially important to live a moral life when we are young, as it is helpful to exercise and practice these concepts before being confronted with more complex issues. Lafollette (2007) theorizes that ethics is like most everything else that we strive to be good at; it requires practice and effort. Practicing and making an effort to make moral decisions throughout life will pay dividends when we are faced with serious moral dilemmas. Furthermore, having insight into “…historical, political, economic, sociological, and psychological insights…” (Lafollette, 2007, p.7) allows us, as decision makers, to make more informed decisions, which will likely result in moral decisions. In sum, the practice of being moral, allows us to work on these skills, so when we are faced with real situations that impact others, we are ready

Lafollette (2007) also emphasizes the need to understand and develop our virtues. Knowing that we ought to behave in a certain way, yet missing an opportunity to exercise moral behavior, is an indication of the need to “sharpen moral vision.” For example, we know that we ought to stay in good physical shape but often do not. This illustrates the need to be mindful of a virtue (in this case perseverance) that is important and must be developed.

Successful business leaders often say that treating people morally is a very important aspect in obtaining success. A person’s reputation is of key importance for a business leader, and if a person’s reputation is damaged by poor ethical conduct, the business will also suffer. The same is true in all walks of life. Where ethics are taken seriously, and people strive to make ethical decisions and actions, personal and professional success follows.

Critics may argue that this attitude is self-serving and that some individuals act ethically only for their own self-interest to be successful or happy. Critics would add that this is not the right reason to be ethical, and therefore is not being truly ethical. A counter argument may be that the action itself can be regarded as ethical, regardless of the reason for taking the action. This perspective focuses more on the end result rather than the means to the end.

Moral Values in Everyday Life

Ethics & Compliance Initiavive’s Resource Center (2020) identifies the following values as typical values that appear throughout codes of ethics. These are important for us to remember when faced with difficult ethical problems and decisions where we are required to be aware of all the values of each of the vested stakeholders. Consider how the following list of moral values can be used to develop a “moral compass” to help direct actions and decision of everyday life:

Favorable reception or belief in something
Doing or finishing something successfully
Obligation or willingness to accept responsibility
The ability to modify behavior to fit changing situations
Inclination to undertake new and daring enterprises
Loyalty or the obligation of loyalty
Unselfish concern for the welfare of others
An eager or strong desire to achieve something
Recognizing the quality, value or significance of people and things
A strong or persistent desire for high achievement
Unceasing; persistent; diligent
The quality or condition of being trustworthy or genuine
The condition or quality of being independent
An inclination to perform kind, charitable acts
Goodwill and lighthearted rapport between or among friends
Feeling and exhibiting concern and empathy for others
The ability to modify or adapt to differing circumstances
Generosity toward others or toward humanity
The condition of being of virtuous character
The quality of being cheerful and dispelling gloom
Exercising the duties, rights, and privileges of being a citizen
Acting intelligently without mental confusion
To work cooperatively especially in a joint intellectual effort
Being bound emotionally or intellectually to a course of action or to another person or persons
 Sharing, participation, and fellowship with others
Deep awareness of the suffering of others coupled with the wish to relieve it
The state or quality of being adequately or well qualified
To strive to do something better than someone else
Maintaining a tranquil or calm state of mind
Regard for or interest in someone or something
The trait of being painstaking and careful
Process of employing continuous, careful thought and examination
Reliability or uniformity of successive results or events
Steadfastness in purpose
The willing association and interaction of a group of people to accomplish a goal
The state or quality of mind or spirit that enables one to face danger, fear, or vicissitudes with confidence and resolution
Civility; consideration for others
The quality or power to elicit belief
Conformity to prevailing standards of propriety or modesty
Selfless devotion of energy or time
The principles of social equality and respect for the individual within a community
The trait of being reliable
Firmness of will, strength, purpose of character
A point of respect in which things differ; variety
Relaxed or informal in attitude or standards
Obtaining or developing knowledge or skill through a learning process
The quality of producing an effect or result with a reasonable degree of effort to energy expended
Identification with and understanding of another’s situation, feelings, and motives.
The act of incitement to action or to practice
The right of different groups of people to receive the same treatment
The state, quality, or ideal of being just, impartial, and fair
The way people behave based on how their beliefs about what is right and wrong influence behavior
State of possessing good qualities in an eminent degree
Consistent with rules, logic, or ethics
Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing
Adhering firmly and devotedly to someone or something that elicits or demands one’s fidelity
Faithfulness; loyalty or devotion
Responsive to change
The willingness to stop blaming or being angry with someone
The strength or firmness of mind that enables a person to face danger, pain or despondency with stoic resolve
A relationship between people based on mutual esteem and goodwill
Liberality in giving or willingness to give
The quality of being mild and docile
Not spurious or counterfeit
Voluntarily transferring knowledge or property without receiving value in return
Morally right, or admirable because of kind, thoughtful, or honest behavior
A friendly attitude in which you wish that good things happen to people
A feeling of thankfulness and appreciation
 Industrious and tireless
The property of providing useful assistance or friendliness evidence by a kindly and helpful disposition
Fairness and straightforwardness of conduct
Principled uprightness of character; personal integrity
The feeling that something desired can be had or will happen
 Feeling that you have no special importance that makes you better than others
The characteristic of regularly working hard
Inventive skill or imagination
Ability to begin or to follow through energetically with a plan or task
Strict adherence to moral values and principles
Intense or exultant happiness
Conformity to moral rightness in action or attitude
The quality or state of being beneficent
Abiding by the encoded rules of society
The right and power to act, believe, or express oneself in a manner of one’s own choosing.
A feeling of intense desire and attraction toward a person or idea
A feeling or attitude of devotion, attachment and affection.
Forgiveness shown toward someone whom you have the power to punish
Having neither too little or too much of anything
Individual beliefs about what is right and wrong
Compliance with that which is required; subjection to rightful restraint or control
Favorable or advantageous circumstance or combination of circumstances
A bright, hopeful view and expectation of the best possible outcome
The ability to accept delay, suffering, or annoyance without complaint or anger
Freedom from war or violence
Steady persistence in adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose
Keeping your word that that you will certainly do something
Doing something right because it is the right thing to do
Adherence to the exact time of a commitment or event
Moral goodness
The ability to think and make good judgments
An acceptance as true or valid
Enabling two people or groups [to] adjust the way they think about divergent ideas or positions so they can accept both
Consistent performance upon which you can depend or trust
Remorse or contrition for past conduct
The ability to rebound quickly from misfortune or change
The ability to act effectively or imaginatively, especially in difficult situations
Polite attitude shown toward someone or something that you consider important
That for which someone is responsible or answerable
The state of being morally upright; without guilt or sin
To give up something for something else considered more important
Control of personal emotions, desires, or actions by one’s own will
Making yourself do things when you should, even if you do not want to do them
Awareness of the needs and emotions of others
Calmness of mind and evenness of temper
To allow others to participate in, use, enjoy, or experience jointly or in turns
Genuineness, honesty, and freedom from duplicity
Habitual freedom from inordinate passion or overheated imagination; calmness; coolness; seriousness
The physical or mental strength to do something for a long time
The careful conducting, supervising, or managing of something
Furnishing support or assistance
The tendency to anticipate needs or wishes
Recognizing and respecting the beliefs or practices of others
A state of calm and peacefulness
The trait of deserving confidence
Knowing how something works or a positive, truthful relationship between people
Core beliefs that guide and motivate attitudes and actions
Doing something right because it is the good thing to do
The ability to make good judgments based on what you have learned from your experience
Perform as intended or desired

Ethics & Compliance Initiative(2020) Definition of values – Free ethics & compliance toolkit . https://www.ethics.org/resources/free-toolkit/definition-values

Lafollette, H. (2007).  The practice of ethics.  Malden, ME: Blackwell Publishing

Ethical Behavior & Moral Values in Everyday Life Copyright © 2020 by Ethics in Law Enforcement by Steve McCartney and Rick Parent https://opentextbc.ca/ethicsinlawenforcement/ is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Types of Moral Principles and Examples of Each

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  • Development

Moral principles are guidelines that people live by to make sure they are doing the right thing. These include things like honesty, fairness, and equality. A person's morality or moral principles can be different from someone else's because they depend on how a person was raised and what is important to them in life.

To better understand your moral principles or those of people in your life, it helps to know the different types of principles and examples of each. We also share their impact, how they develop, and their possible pitfalls. But first, let's look at how moral principles came about.

History of Moral Principles

The history of moral principles dates back to Ancient Greece and Ancient China. Moral principles were important in these societies because they believed that to be successful, people needed a clear sense of right and wrong.

Research on moral principles began with Ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle, who wanted to figure out the meaning of virtue. Later, moral principles were studied by philosophers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant.

In the field of psychology, moral principles have been studied in the context of moral development. Psychologists seek to understand how children develop a sense of morality and how moral principles are applied in different contexts. For example, psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg studied moral development in boys from different cultures.

In the contemporary world, moral principles still play an important role and are considered guidelines for living life successfully. As an example, honesty is considered a moral principle because it keeps relationships strong.

Types of Moral Principles

There are two types of moral principles: absolute and relative.

  • Absolute principles are unchanging and universal. They are based on universal truths about the nature of human beings. For example, murder is wrong because it goes against the natural order of things. These are also sometimes called normative moral principles or those that are generally accepted by society.
  • Relative principles change depending on the situation. They are based on opinions and circumstances that may change over time, from person to person, or for different situations. Relative moral principles depend on a person's beliefs , relative to what people perceive as good or bad in relation to themselves. In other words, when someone says something is good, in most cases, they are really saying it is good for them or perhaps it contributes to their well-being.

Morals Examples

Some examples of absolute moral principles include:

  • Don't kill.
  • Speak the truth .
  • Be careful with what you say and do to others.
  • Respect the property of others.
  • Treat people in need or distress as we would want to be treated if our situation were reversed.

Examples of relative moral principles are:

  • It is morally wrong to spend money on a luxury item.
  • It is morally right to care for our planet and preserve it for future generations.

How to Adhere to Moral Principles

Many people strive to live by the moral principles they believe in. But, it can be difficult to follow them all of the time, which is what makes following one's own personal moral values even more valuable.

There are many ways that a person might adhere to their moral principles: through thoughts and feelings, actions, or words. Below are some examples.

  • In thoughts and feelings, a person might strive to be honest by being fair and kind .
  • With actions, a person might live up to their moral principles by not being violent or aggressive.
  • In words, someone might observe their moral principles through politeness.

Impact of Moral Principles

Moral principles are important for society because they help people learn how to get along and live well with each other . They teach us that all human beings deserve the same rights, which is why it's not okay to discriminate against someone based on their ethnicity or race. People who follow moral principles also tend to have a better quality of life than those who don't.

Moral principles can also impact an individual's identity and sense of self-worth . For example, someone who is honest may feel that they are a good person because they follow the moral principle to be truthful at all times. For people with strong values about equality, it might make them feel better about themselves when they don't discriminate against people who are different from them.

Tips to Develop Good Moral Principles

There are various ways to develop moral principles that transcend culture, religion, and country. If you are just starting on your moral journey, you might consider exploring morals in various philosophical texts.

However, there are also many practical steps a person can take to develop good moral principles:

  • Think about what you would do when faced with an ethical dilemma and why you would make those decisions.
  • Ask yourself what you think is right or wrong and make sure your actions are in line with those thoughts.
  • Watch out for double standards , like being nice to one person while not being so kind to another.
  • If it helps, write down a list of the moral principles you want to work on and post them where they're easy to see, like on a mirror or a sticky note that you hang in your workspace.
  • Don't worry if you're not perfectly adhering to your moral principles. The important thing is that you are trying your best.

Pitfalls of Moral Principles

There are some things that can go wrong when following moral principles. Below are some examples of how moral principles may not always guide you toward the best course of action.

First, it's possible to make judgments about others based on your personal values and not theirs. For example, if you think all women should dress conservatively because you believe dressing another way is immoral, you are passing judgment on others based on your own set of standards.

In addition, it can be hard to tell the difference between a moral principle and something that's cultural or part of your upbringing. For example, you might believe women should defer to their husbands because in your culture everyone has traditionally agreed with this idea for generations; however, if you were born into a different country where people don't think this way, you might not feel that it's morally right.

Finally, sometimes people can use moral principles to justify bad behavior like stealing or hurting others in some way. For example, if you steal because you believe it will help the poor, your thoughts could be twisted to say that stealing is okay.

In general, moral principles are beneficial both to society and the individual person. However, blindly following moral principles without considering their origin or using your judgment based on the situation can lead to issues.

The best course of action is usually to adhere to a loosely defined set of moral principles that align with your beliefs and society as a whole while also considering each situation individually. Also, weigh the cost of adhering to your morals in terms of its impact on other individuals. Aim to do right by you and by others so everybody wins.

Puett M. Genealogies of gods, ghosts and humans: the capriciousness of the divine in early Greece and early China . In: Ancient Greece and China Compared .

Park S. Cultural relativism vs. cultural absolutism . Cultura . 2021;18(2):75-91. doi:10.3726/CUL022021.0004

Austin CL, Saylor R, Finley PJ. Moral distress in physicians and nurses: Impact on professional quality of life and turnover . Psych Trauma Theory Res Pract Policy . 2017;9(4):399-406. doi:10.1037/tra0000201

Macko A. Contingencies of self-worth and the strength of deontological and utilitarian inclinations . J Soc Psychol . 2021;161(6):664-682. doi:10.1080/00224545.2020.1860882

By Arlin Cuncic, MA Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

Home / Essay Samples / Philosophy / Ethics / My Personal And Ethical Values

My Personal And Ethical Values

  • Category: Philosophy , Psychology , Life
  • Topic: Ethics , Morality , Values

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