Posted on Nov 7, 2012

Is Conscientiousness the Ultimate Value?

In the News: One Personality Trait Has The Most Influence Over Your Future

Eric Baker writes about the value of conscientiousness. He proposes it might be the most important trait to predict your future success, both personally and professionally.

As a differentiating value, Conscientiousness means being extremely thorough, careful, or vigilant; a desire to do a task well.

Some might feel this value is closely aligned to perfectionism. But it really just underscores our desire to do our best.

A key resource Baker highlights here is a book by Paul Tough, called How Children Succeed. A quote from this book is: “…conscientiousness was the trait that best predicted workplace success.” And more.

Baker proposes conscientiousness helps us succeed across multiple fronts, including:

Earning more money and greater job satisfaction
Higher probability of finding a job
Experiencing a more satisfying and longer marriage
Leading a healthier life
Living a longer life

So is conscientiousness the ultimate value? It depends. If you want to possess a set of winning qualities that resonate with society, then it appears the answer is yes.

However, Baker goes on to explain that conscientiousness doesn’t help in any way promote creativity or independence, two qualities proven as a requirement to be an effective leader. He goes even further, criticizing our current school system that rewards students for being conscientious but not for their creativity.

So, when it comes to leading a happy, fulfilled life – and being a good citizen – the value of conscientiousness just might be the ultimate value. But to be an effective leader, you’ll need more.