In our view, values and principles are the foundation upon which our lives, careers and relationships are built. So, we asked folks we admire to open up to us about the values and principles that matter most to them.

Joey MacMahan | Recording Artist, Producer and Audio Engineer

Sincerity over perfection is one of the most important values I have. In music, this manifests in my writing and recording process, and in life it keeps me wanting to become better, without the constant and negative self judgement that plagues so many. I believe most people are doing the best with the information and resources they have, and I try to remember that about myself as well. My goal is always to evoke emotion in a listener, not simply impress them. Read more>>

Edye Kelly | Dancer & Artist

I value the ability to put everything into question and keeping that curiosity with you no matter how experienced in this life you are. As a person who grew up in a very traditional environment, there was a time in my life where I would judge anything I did not completely understand. My perspective reality was smaller than reality itself, and I would’ve never came to terms with that if it wasn’t for having dance, creativity, and art in my life and career. Once I started to embrace the differences in values and morals with the rest of the world, my mind began to expand. It became easier for me to empathize with and understand those that are around me. Read more>>

Tira Howard | photographer

The principle that matters most to me is, intention. Be intentional with your work and your passions. Be intentional with the people you care about. And even those you may not know very well. Be intentional with yourself. Our intentions set off what gets put out into the world. Ill-intentions, is what causes the downward spiral of non-progression. We owe it to ourselves to be well intended for the small amount of time that we are alive. Read more>>