* Originally Published June 2008

People without principles are like boats without rudders or cars without steering wheels – aimless in direction.  However, when your life is centered on principles, they become a compass, quickly pointing you in the right direction when a crisis arises.

People with principles are able to direct their thoughts and make purposeful decisions.  You can choose the principles you want to guide you by first identifying those values you hold dear.  First think of those roles that are important to you in your family life, community life, vocational life and religious/spiritual life.  Then think of the people, activities and qualities you value in each of those roles.  For each value, write a personal supporting principle.  When you have finished identifying the personal principles to guide your life, use them to measure each possible career and role choice.  When you have found a pursuit or profession that conforms to your basic principles, while allowing you to do what you do best and enjoy most, then you will have found your ideal calling.

Gini Nichols, Financial Advisor