Introduction
In my article “Doing The Right Things” I had discussed the importance of outlining a set of core values, documenting these values, and consistently acting in accordance with these documented values. In addition, I had provided an example of two very different, yet successful individuals who use documented values to maintain consistency and drive success. Documentation of your values allows you to refer back to these values, at least until they become second nature. Your values should be unique to you and/or your organization and are based on your life experience. This article will instruct you on how to formally develop your own set of values for use in personal or professional development.

Cape Cod Branding Values
Reading the importance of values  and linking these values to one’s work from two very different successful people made me consider the values of Cape Cod Branding and how they relate to this blog. Sure, subconsciously our values influence our work, but writing down these values and referencing them from time to time ensure that we stick to these values and increase the probability of doing so and greatly reduce the risk of drifting from your core beliefs. So what are our values here in this medium?

1. Transparency
2. Growth
3. Neutrality

I will address each in greater detail. First and foremost I view transparency as the most important value, especially for a blog. Without transparency, or open and honest reporting, there will not be trust or credibility. Transparency equals trust. The more insight I provide our readers into our growth, development, and way of doing business, the more of a bond I will form with you – our readers, and the more you can learn from us. Conversely, the shielding of information and potential inconsistencies with documented results will cause distrust and cause readers to question the validity of documented information and results. For this reason we view transparency as being the key to success of this blog, and Cape Cod Branding overall.

In their book “PROBLOGGER”, Darren Rowse and Chris Garrett discuss the importance of transparency in the following passage:

“A better approach for someone just starting out in a niche with little experience of it would be to start a blog on the topic that is open about what they do and don’t know, and that will document their own learning experience on the topic rather than claiming to know it all and be able to teach others.”

This accurately describes our approach. Although Amy and I have significant experience in both personal development and entrepreneurship, the learning is never truly complete – there is always something new to learn and ways to improve oneself, regardless of where one is in life. We are documenting our journey, me – more from the the topical level, and Amy more from the technical aspect of our journey, which accurately and transparently reflects our contributions to this blog.