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In our last post, we explored the power of vulnerability in city management. Today, we’re diving into the second skill Brené Brown highlights in “Dare to Lead”: Living into Our Values. In my own leadership journey and now as an executive coach working with city managers, I’ve seen firsthand how clearly defined and consistently applied values can transform leadership and organizational culture. Sadly, I’ve also seen how the values that hang from the wall alongside the mission statement are often mere words, never used to foster a thriving culture or drive desired results.
Brown defines values as “a way of being or believing that we hold most important.” In city management, your values are your north star, guiding decisions and actions even in the stormiest political waters. They’re not just words on a plaque in City Hall; they’re the principles you embody every day, in every interaction and decision.
For a city manager, living into your values might look like:
