When Core Profit Overshadows Core Values: A Reflection on Life, Work, and Purpose

This week, I had one of those moments where life suddenly feels like it’s speeding past. Out of nowhere, it hit me—I’m not too far from turning 40. That realization sparked a whirlwind of emotions—fear, reflection, and gratitude. It made me think deeply about how far I’ve come, all because I’ve chosen to make bold, often tough decisions based on my beliefs and values.

When we hear “core values,” we usually think about companies—those polished statements hung on office walls or plastered on websites. But here’s the thing: individuals have core values too, whether we’ve written them down or not. They silently guide our choices, shape our character, and influence how we respond to life’s curveballs.

The problem is, many of us let core profit take the driver’s seat instead. We make decisions based purely on, “What’s in it for me?” It’s easy to fall into that mindset, especially when opportunities flash promising rewards. But when we operate with fluid values—adjusting them based on convenience or gain—we end up with fluid outcomes.

I’ve had to make some hard calls in my career. I’ve turned down job offers and even walked away from roles that didn’t align with what I stood for. Sometimes, it wasn’t the company’s posted core values that threw me off—it was the decisions made behind closed doors. Companies may claim to stand for integrity, respect, or innovation, but you truly discover their real values by observing what they tolerate and what they reject.

It’s often said that a business is a separate legal entity, but when it comes to managing people and culture, the mindset of the owners seep through. No matter how strong an HR department is, if leadership isn’t aligned with those people-centered values, the whole structure weakens.

To the young professionals reading this—don’t let short-term gains blind you to long-term fulfillment. It’s tempting to chase the biggest paycheck or the flashiest title, but ask yourself: What’s the cost? Are you building something lasting, or are you setting up temporary scaffolding that will be torn down when the project is done?

Pillars stand the test of time; scaffolds are there just for the moment.

We’re all still figuring it out—none of us have fully “arrived.” But the decisions you make today, driven by strong core values, will shape the person you become tomorrow. And trust me, that future version of you will be grateful you didn’t trade your principles for short-term profit.