The Hidden Tension of Misaligned Values
What’s That Disconnect You’re Feeling?
The Hidden Tension of Misaligned Values
Ever felt frustrated in an organization but couldn’t quite explain why? Chances are, you’re experiencing a values gap—when the stated values of a system (what’s written on the walls, in the mission statement, or preached in meetings) don’t match the lived reality (how decisions are made, how people are treated, and what’s actually rewarded).
When people feel this gap, trust erodes, buy-in weakens, and performance suffers. You can’t fully commit to a culture that feels like a façade. When an organization claims to value integrity, collaboration, and well-being, but its actions tell a different story—people notice.
What Can You Do?
🔥 Clarify Your Own Values
What matters most to you? Growth, integrity, collaboration? First, align your own behaviors so you feel internally congruent. Then, use that clarity to assess whether your organization aligns with your values.
👀 Observe Patterns, Not Promises
Culture isn’t built on words, it’s built on actions. Watch how decisions are made, how people behave under pressure, and what actually gets rewarded.
🗣️ Speak Up (If Possible)
If you’re in a position to advocate for change, address misalignments constructively:
👉 “We say X, but in practice, we do Y—how can we close that gap?”
These conversations can create real movement toward alignment.
⚡ Lead, or Lead from the Bench
If you have influence, walk the talk—even if others don’t. If you’re not in a leadership role, focus on aligning your own behaviors with your values. Values are contagious—make yours something worth catching.
🔎 Decide If It’s a Dealbreaker
Some misalignments can be worked through, but if the gap consistently drains your energy and motivation, it may be time to find a culture that better aligns.
Final Thought
Misaligned values aren’t just frustrating—they undermine trust, engagement, and long-term success. The strongest organizations and teams don’t just talk about values—they live them.
So, here’s the real question:
✅ How can we move closer to alignment as an organization?
✅ How can I stay true to my values, even when the culture around me doesn’t?
Have you felt this tension before? How did you handle it?