Fear lurking in the dark

It was dark. I was lying in my hammock and couldn’t see a thing beyond my mosquito net, but I could hear something rustling in the bushes nearby, which I hoped was small and non-lethal, even if not overtly friendly. It was hard to be sure amid the more distant but louder roars of howler monkeys, carried through the dense jungle canopy. 

The air was pungent with the smell of wet earth and dripping leaves, recently soaked by a rainforest downpour. All that water reminded me that I needed to go to the toilet. This was a bit of a challenge, as the hole in the ground that was our ‘restroom’ was some distance away, yet I knew that within an arm’s length of where I was, there would likely be a poisonous snake, spider or scorpion lurking in the shadows. To access the toilet, I would have to navigate a narrow forest path, where, when you shone a torch at night, you could see the reflection of a thousand tiny eyes looking back at you on either side. It was disconcerting to say the least.

What was worse was that I knew that if anything bad did happen to me, it would be a real problem, as I was about a day’s travel from the nearest civilisation.

So, guess how I felt?

Well, actually, I felt more content than I could ever remember!

Surprised by happiness

Surprising right? I too was slightly shocked by that deep feeling of happiness in that moment (despite needing to go to the loo). I had never felt anything quite like it before (the contentment, I mean, not the growing urgency to pee!)

In that moment I was thinking that if someone said I could do the same thing every day for the rest of my life, I would sign up right there and then, but I could not quite explain why.

How about you? Have you ever felt that level of amazing contentment? 

Well, today I am going to explain the secret that I discovered, which explained why I felt so good in that moment. It turns out it was all about personal values. Learning this truth has helped inform my decisions from that point and steer my life into other places where I could flourish and be happy.

But let me explain what I mean by personal values.

What are personal values?

The word ‘value’ denotes a degree of worth. For example, in monetary terms, we set a value on something by how much we are willing to pay for a product or service.

In moral terms, a value is a concept to which we give a high level of importance. Values are the moral code that guides us, and the priorities that motivate us. They are the principles we uphold, the ethics and tenets that we believe in and ascribe to. These ideals are our rules of conduct and standards of behaviour.

If you do not know what your most important values are, then it is very likely that you are living your life – whether you know it or not – according to other people’s principles or priorities. If you are not careful, this can quickly lead to dissatisfaction. 

What is the difference between personal and corporate values?

There are values we hold personally, as an individual, and those we share corporately, be that with friends or family, a team or organisation, a community or society. They are often similar but expressed in subtly different ways. 

For example, a common personal value might be expressed as kindness, but a team might talk about respect. A person may value honesty, whereas an organisation might express that as transparency.

Also, each word we use for a principle, such as integrity, excellence or creativity, might mean something slightly different to a given individual or context, so it is important to define exactly what we mean by a value, and most importantly, what the related behaviours are linked to that word.

How do values affect our decisions?

Positive values, or virtues, are inherently good, so we might agree that a whole list of such ideals are things we agree with, but when pushed, we will hold some principles higher than others. 

This is important to understand as it is linked to how we make many decisions.

For example, when you go shopping, what you choose can reflect certain principles. You might pick an item because that is all you can afford, but usually, there is some level of choice. For instance, you might pick something because you are loyal to that brand. You might choose something expensive because you prioritise quality above price, or want something ethically sourced because you value sustainability or fairness for the producers.

Therefore, as you can see, values impact our everyday choices, no matter how big or small. The jobs we choose, the friends we make, and the ways we use our time all reflect our values. 

What is the right number of values?

There is no exact number for how many personal values are too few or too many; too few, and it is unlikely to be truly reflective of your character, too many, and it becomes hard to discern the real priorities. So, a good rule of thumb is to identify three to five top virtues. 

For me, my top three personal values are:

1. Adventure
2. Service and
3. Leadership.

So, let’s get back to the story to explain how, deep in the rainforest, I worked out what these were and what they mean to me.

Adventure: embracing challenge

I was in the jungle, and I was happy. Therefore, you might not be surprised that one of my personal values is adventure. And this principle was the easiest for me to work out, as I had long had a passion for adventure.

I grew up reading, watching and dreaming of adventure. At that time, my favourite movie character was Indiana Jones. I watched those films more times than I can count, and I loved the stories so much that I owned a Dr Jones wide-brimmed hat and satchel that I took when exploring. My friend and I even learned how to use a bullwhip, just to be more like Indy!

Indiana Jones also intersected with my love of studying the past, and while at university, I took courses in ancient history and archaeology. One day, my flatmate showed me some information about an expedition to map archaeological remains in the jungles of Central America. She had been invited but could not go, so she offered to introduce me to the expedition organisers.

I wasted no time in contacting them. For me, this was literally a dream come true. I had the opportunity to be a real-life Indiana Jones!

Suffice to say, I passed the selection criteria and was invited to join the trip. That is how, some months later, I found myself in my hammock (and yes, I did have my Indy hat with me!)

So, the principle of adventure is not surprising, but what about my other values?

Service: helping others

My next value is service. And although not as obvious as adventure, when I now look back at my old school reports, I can see comments from various teachers that highlighted that I obviously liked assisting people – be that classmates, staff or visitors. 

This virtue also reflected the example set by my parents, who were both committed to serving their family and community. I had obviously caught some of their passion for supporting others.

In time, this grew into a larger desire, one to serve my country, which I realised through serving as an officer in the military (I became a bomb-disposal officer), something I had already committed to when I went to college. 

When in the jungle, my commitment to service was often expressed in little ways. I would get up before anyone else to start the fire for breakfast. I had spent a lot of time outdoors, camping and hiking, so I shared that experience with people who were less comfortable living in the woods. Every day we had to walk for hours in the heat, and it was natural for me to check up on people, making sure they were ok and seeing what I could do to help anyone who might be struggling. 

It wasn’t really anything I had to consciously think about; these were mostly natural behaviours and ways of being. It was only when I stopped to reflect on the patterns that I realised that these actions stemmed from the value that I call service.

Leadership: positive influence

So, I was happy being on an adventure and serving my colleagues on the expedition. Then, the overall leader surprised me. He asked me to help lead. There were two official leaders, but the overall group needed to be split into three teams, so he asked me to lead the third team.

I hadn’t thought about it until then, but my experience of adventure and love of the environment gave me confidence. My desire to help and serve people had built trust. Now, the expedition leader was pointing out something that was already happening: I was being looked at as a leader.

This was a surprise as I have never thought of myself as a natural leader. I am more introverted than extroverted, self-conscious and easily embarrassed. I was skinny, gawky and gangly in my early teenage years, with spots and braces to boot. None of this, funnily enough, helped my self-confidence!

What is leadership?

Thus, I was often quiet in a group context and did not generally push for attention or power. But, it turned out that the idea of me not being a leader was based on some false assumptions of what a leader is or isn’t. The biggest thing that helped me change how I thought about this is the definition given by leadership guru John C. Maxwell. He said that:

“Leadership is influence; nothing more and nothing less.”

In other words, leadership is not just an official role or natural charisma. There are leadership positions, but we are all leaders, as we all display leadership every time we influence a person or situation, even if we are just influencing and leading ourselves.

In the jungle, I discovered that in that adventurous context, where it was easy for me to serve people, I realised what leadership truly is, and why it is important. I embraced it, I loved the challenge and satisfaction it brought, and I have ever since. 

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How to find and embrace your values

So, there we have it. That is why my top personal values are adventure, service and leadership. Those principles continue to guide me today, informing my decisions and helping me find contentment in what I do. 

I have not always made the right choices, and there have been times when I have been unhappy since, but understanding my values has helped me better recorrect my course in those situations, as you can read about in:

Analysing Values and How to Re-Find Happiness

And, you are probably glad to hear, that you don’t need to go to the depths of the jungle to find out your principles! There are some simple things you can do to reveal them. If you would like to find these out, check out my post on:

How to Discover Your Top 3 Personal Values

This YouTube video shows Tuckman’s five stages of team development using the example of Top Gun: Maverick:

Tuckman and Top Gun: An Example of a High-Performing Team

Have you ever wondered why some teams struggle at first but eventually become unstoppable? In this video, we’re breaking down Tuckman’s Five Stages of Team Development using the blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick.

You will see how the story actually demonstrates each step, that of forming, storming, norming, performing and adjourning.

Whether you’re studying leadership, management, or teamwork—or you just love films with deeper meaning—this model explains exactly how teams form, clash, grow, and succeed.

So, spoiler alert! Be aware that this video does talk about the plot of the movie.

For further information, check out the related post by using this link: https://therightquestions.co/tuckmans-five-stages-of-team-development-top-gun-maverick/

This YouTube video sets out the steps of the Socratic Method using the example of Euthyphro:

Understanding the Socratic Method Through A Famous Philosophical Dialogue: Euthyphro

If you want to have more meaningful conversations, if you want to improve your soft skills, critical thinking and leadership skills, then the Socratic Method is a must. And, where better to start than with Socrates himself?

So, in this video, we explore one of Plato’s most famous dialogues: Euthyphro. In the process, we get to see all five steps of the elenchus, or Socratic approach. The Socratic Method shows us that true leadership is not about being right — it’s about helping others think for themselves. It’s about finding the truth, through collaboration, challenge and taking the time to create the best thinking environment.

If you would like to read more about this method, then check out this accompanying article: https://therightquestions.co/the-socratic-method-step-by-step-how-it-works-with-real-examples/

This YouTube video introduces the theory of the Dark Triad and Dark Tetrad leadership traits:

Toxic Traits: The Dark Triad and Tetrad Explained

Some of the most successful leaders in the world may share a dangerous psychological profile known as the Dark Triad and the Dark Tetrad.

In this video, you’ll learn:

• What the traits are
• How narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism show up in leadership
• How to spot toxic leaders before they damage teams and cultures

These personality traits can create short-term success but long-term destruction in workplaces, relationships, and organisations. If you’ve worked under a toxic leader, you will be able to spot the traits.

For more information on this subject, check out the accompanying article by using this link: https://therightquestions.co/dark-triad-dark-tetrad-leadership-traits/

This YouTube video introduces Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics and how that can inspire a thriving life of happiness:

Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics

If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to live a good life—not just a comfortable or successful one, but a deeply fulfilling life—then you’re asking the same question human beings have asked for thousands of years. And one of the most powerful guides we have comes from a philosopher who lived more than two thousand years ago: Aristotle.

In this video, we’re exploring his key themes of his Nicomachean Ethics, how he expanded on the ideas of Socrates and Plato, and what it can teach us about living well in the modern world.

If you want to find out more on this subject, check out the accompanying article here: https://therightquestions.co/aristotles-nicomachean-ethics/

Leadership Styles and Models in Dune

Frank Herbert’s Dune—across both the original novels and their modern film adaptations—is far more than a science-fiction epic. It is a sophisticated study of leadership, power, and influence, offering insight into how leaders rise, rule, and sometimes destroy the worlds they shape. Through a cast of complex male and female characters, Dune explores a wide range of leadership styles and theories, many of which align closely with modern leadership models.

Herbert does not present leadership as inherently good or bad. Instead, he shows how different approaches to leadership can inspire loyalty, create stability, or unleash devastating consequences.

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Leadership Themes in  Dune

At its core, Dune is about power: who controls it, how it is maintained, and what it costs. Leadership in Dune is always consequential. Every decision has moral, political, and human implications. The novel explores leadership models such as Great Man theory, authoritarian leadership, transformational leadership, servant leadership, and toxic leadership, often showing their strengths and their dangers side by side.

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Great Man Theory

Dune strongly reflects Great Man theory, the belief that history is shaped by exceptional individuals. Characters such as Paul Atreides, Duke Leto, Emperor Shaddam IV, and Baron Harkonnen all influence the fate of the universe through their personal actions.

However, Herbert also critiques this model. While great individuals may change history, Dune warns against placing blind faith in singular heroes. Paul’s rise demonstrates the allure of destiny and prophecy, but also exposes how dangerous charismatic “great leaders” can become when their power goes unchecked.

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Control, Domination, Power, and Influence

Padishah Emperor Shaddam IV

Emperor Shaddam IV represents authoritarian leadership based on control rather than inspiration. His authority is secured through his monopoly over the spice melange, the most valuable resource in the universe.

Despite respecting Duke Leto Atreides, Shaddam orchestrates his destruction because Leto’s popularity threatens imperial power. This decision highlights the moral emptiness of authoritarian leadership, where personal relationships and ethics are sacrificed for dominance.

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Leadership Traits and Skills

Duncan Idaho

Duncan Idaho exemplifies leadership through character rather than position. He consistently displays essential leadership traits:

• Integrity and moral courage
• Humility
• Loyalty and willingness to sacrifice

Duncan’s influence comes from trust and respect, showing that leadership does not require formal authority.

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Action-Centred Leadership

Gurney Halleck

Gurney Halleck aligns closely with action-centred leadership theory, balancing:

• Task – operational effectiveness and discipline
• Team – morale, unity, and shared purpose
• Individual – mentoring and personal care

His leadership is practical, adaptable, and effective in high-pressure environments.

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Transactional Leadership

Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam

The Reverend Mother Mohiam demonstrates transactional leadership, demanding obedience through reward and punishment. Her use of the Gom Jabbar is a brutal example of control through fear.

While she is a strategic thinker, her leadership style is also toxic and Machiavellian, treating people as expendable tools in pursuit of long-term goals.

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Transformational Leadership Theory

Duke Leto Atreides and Paul Atreides

Duke Leto Atreides represents ethical transformational leadership. He leads with charisma, compassion, and moral responsibility, famously risking his life to save workers endangered by a sandworm.

Paul Atreides also embodies transformational leadership—visionary, adaptive, and inspirational. However, Dune offers a powerful warning: extreme charisma and prophetic vision can lead to fanaticism. Paul’s evolution from dutiful son to the architect of a holy war demonstrates how leadership can be distorted by power and circumstance.

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Situational Leadership Theory

Lady Jessica

Lady Jessica is a master of situational leadership, adapting her style depending on her role and context. She moves fluidly between:

• Royal concubine
• Protective mother
• Bene Gesserit adept
• Spiritual and political leader

Her flexibility allows her to survive and exert influence in radically different environments.

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Values-Based Leadership

Stilgar

Stilgar embodies values-based leadership, rooted in tradition, belief, and cultural identity. His authority comes from shared Fremen values rather than coercion.

However, Stilgar’s growing devotion to Paul’s vision shows how values-based leaders can become vulnerable to ideological capture.

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Servant Leadership Theory

Dr Liet-Kynes

Dr Liet-Kynes represents servant leadership. Though he appears to be a minor imperial official, he is a central figure in guiding the Fremen and shaping Arrakis’s ecological future.

His leadership is humble, patient, and purpose-driven, focused on service rather than recognition.

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Toxic Leadership

Baron Vladimir Harkonnen

Baron Harkonnen is the clearest example of toxic leadership in Dune. He rules through fear, cruelty, and manipulation. While effective in the short term, his leadership creates instability and resentment.

Herbert uses the Baron to demonstrate how fear-based leadership ultimately destroys organisations and societies.

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Authentic Leadership Theory

Chani

Chani reflects authentic leadership, grounded in honesty, loyalty, and emotional truth. She inspires trust through genuine connection rather than authority.

Her internal conflict highlights the personal cost of leadership and the moral burden borne by those closest to power.

Leadership Development: Master the Top Leadership and Life Skills

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Dune: a powerful exploration of leadership styles

Through its richly drawn characters and political complexity, Dune offers a powerful exploration of leadership theory in action. Frank Herbert presents leadership as both necessary and dangerous, challenging readers to question not only who leads, but how, why, and at what cost.

You can re-visit the epic of Dune and explore its leadership lessons, with the movies and books available via this link:

Frank Herbert’s Dune

This YouTube video introduces Plato and his four cardinal values:

Plato: The Republic and it’s four core values

What makes a person truly good? It’s a question philosophers have asked for thousands of years — and one of the most influential answers came from Plato, the great student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle.

In his masterpiece The Republic, Plato outlined what he called the four cardinal virtues — wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice. These, he believed, were the essential ingredients for both a good person and a good society. In this video, we unpack what each of these values means — and how Plato’s ideas still shape how we think about ethics, leadership, and personal growth.

For more information, check out the related article by using this link: https://therightquestions.co/plato-cardinal-values-ethics

This YouTube video introduces the wisdom of Aristotle and the key seven questions he used:

Aristotle: Understanding the World Through Ancient Eyes

Aristotle is one of the greatest thinkers in human history. His ideas shaped the foundations of Western logic, science, politics, and ethics. But behind his vast and complex philosophy lies something surprisingly simple: a method for understanding the world by asking seven core questions.

This video reveals these seven questions and how to use them for better critical thinking, situational awareness, planning and decision-making.

If you want more information, check out the related article here: https://therightquestions.co/the-timeless-wisdom-of-aristotle-understanding-the-world-through-ancient-eyes/

This YouTube video introduces how the Socratic Method can be used for better coaching and conversations:

Socratic Questions for Better Coaching

Imagine having a superpower that helps you navigate any challenge, make clearer decisions, and truly understand yourself and others. This isn’t about magic; it’s about mastering the art of guided questioning. Join us to learn how one ancient method can unlock unprecedented personal and professional breakthroughs, transforming your potential into reality.

In a world obsessed with quick fixes and instant answers, the Socratic Method offers a timeless path to deeper thinking and authentic leadership. Rooted in the philosophy of Socrates, this ancient technique emphasises the power of questions over answers — a perfect fit for modern coaching and personal development.

Whether you’re a coach, an executive, a team leader, or just interested in personal improvement, applying the Socratic approach can unlock critical thinking, boost self-awareness, and transform how you guide yourself and others. If you would like to read more about this method then check out this accompanying article:

https://therightquestions.co/the-socratic-method-in-coaching-ancient-wisdom-for-modern-leadership/

This YouTube video introduces the questions to ask for better workplace meetings:

Improve Your Work Communications and Meetings

Meetings are a necessary part of workplace communications but many people suffer from being overloaded by unproductive gatherings. Meeting types include:

• 1. Briefing
• 2. Decision-making
• 3. Problem-solving
• 4. Brainstorming
• 5. Team building
• 6. Project starts
• 7. Planning
• 8. Progress
• 9. Performance

Whether you are organising, facilitating, or attending a meeting, you need to ask some critical questions. This video outlines the seven questions but if you want more detail check out the related article using this link:

https://therightquestions.co/the-7-questions-you-need-to-answer-for-any-successful-meeting/