A deeply meaningful term, often unspoken, represents one’s core values, beliefs, or driving passions. It acts as a personal compass, guiding decisions and actions. For example, “compassion” could be such a term, motivating an individual to volunteer at a local shelter.
These guiding principles provide a sense of purpose and direction, influencing one’s trajectory in life. By understanding these core values, individuals can make more authentic choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. Historically, similar concepts like “watchwords” or “mottos” have served comparable purposes, offering guiding principles in various contexts, from religious orders to military units.