A Framework for Defining Core Values

I have observed that a lot of conflicts in life arise because of a mismatch in core values. I wondered what that even meant. Clearly, it means that what I value and what others value are not the same thing. But is there a framework that helps define one's values clearly? Here's one I came up with that brings clarity of thought.

I like principles that can be formulated as:

X, even over Y.
Never X.
Always Y.

When you frame what you value in such a way it becomes clear how you operate as a person.

When you say X, even over Y, it’s not saying that Y is unimportant, just that X is more important.

When you say Never X, it means under no circumstances you'll be found doing X.

When you say Always Y, it means given a choice between Y and something else, you will consistently choose Y.

This framework helps bring clarity to your value system.

I thought of writing down my values in this format to help me understand how I operate better. Here are my values:

Brutal honesty over political correctness.
Disagree and commit over analysis-paralysis. (The cost of inaction is exponentially higher than the cost of adverse action)
Context over process.
Customer value over ease of development.
Always build leaders around you.
Always be kind.
Always hire for potential, then train for excellence.
Always be learning.
Never settle. Being good enough is not good enough.
Progress over perfection.

I hope you can benefit from using this framework to understand how you operate and how to avoid conflicts and collaborate smoothly.