"Clarity of language births results we can feel."

Adam Kreek

Executive Business Coach

New ViDA Rule: “That person is so full of…” Test

posted in Values

Contents

I’ve been baffled by the chaos surrounding values words—the grammar fails, the contradictions in literature, and the internet's endless misuse. So, I’ve taken on a mission: to define clear rules that cut through the confusion and unlock the true power of values. When we clarify these words, we don’t just gain clarity—we gain a tool for better decisions, stronger communities, and thriving businesses.

So, here's a new rule.

Rule: A valid value word must fit naturally into the phrase:
"That person is so full of ______."

Definition: Values must be expressed as singular, abstract nouns that describe intrinsic, positive qualities of character. These nouns should naturally fit into a context that attributes the quality directly to a person, highlighting their inner nature.

Grammatical Rule:

  1. Singular, Abstract Nouns:
    • The word must represent an intangible, intrinsic quality.
    • Example: "That person is so full of kindness."
  2. No Verbs, Adjectives, or Participle Forms:
    • Words like "caring" or "successful" do not work because they describe actions or states rather than inherent traits.
    • Example: "That person is so full of caring" feels unnatural.
  3. Conveys a Trait, Not an Outcome:
    • The word should represent a stable quality of character, not an achievement, process, or need.
    • Example: "That person is so full of fulfillment" works, but "That person is so full of success" may imply external validation rather than character.

Examples of Passing and Failing Words:

Kindness

  • Pass
  • Represents an intrinsic trait of character.

Integrity

  • Pass
  • Reflects a stable moral quality.

Caring

  • Fail
  • Described as a present participle, indicating an action rather than a state.

Successful

  • Fail
  • Adjective, not a standalone intrinsic trait.

Fulfillment

  • Pass
  • Represents an internal state of satisfaction.

This test ensures that values are framed as intrinsic qualities that resonate with ViDA's focus on states of being rather than actions or external aspirations.