Congruency between nurses' values and job requirements: a call for integrity

Values are an integral part of human existence; they select the priorities we live by and shape our way of being in the world. Living outside our value system is exhausting because our inner and outer worlds are not congruent with one another. Organizations must provide a variety of work roles reflecting a range of value sets to integrate staff at differing stages of value development. Individuals must know and honor their own values by living authentic, courageous lives through making career choices that are congruent with their values while honoring the unique career choices of their colleagues. Values are related to skills, and through skill acquisition more complex values are acquired. Through the development of interpersonal, imaginal, and systems skills, individuals and organizations can expand their capacity for caring and innovation in holistic and life-giving ways.