Thoughts on Values

Kirsten Harms

#22 Kirsten  Harms

My name is Kirsten Harms , and I live by the sea. The sound of the waves, the wind, and the wide horizon are my lifeblood. As a tourism consultant, I support hosts and regions in creating authentic, sustainable vacation experiences. As a certified systemic coach and through my advanced training in positive psychology, I explore what strengthens, connects, and truly fulfills people—in life and in travel. My motivation: to create places and encounters that are beneficial and memorable!

Universality is a value that guides me in life.

For me, universality means seeing the whole picture – humanity, nature, life as an interconnected web. This value reminds me to stay connected: to myself, to others, and to the world that sustains us. Harmony with nature is not a romantic notion for me, but an attitude – mindful, respectful, grateful. Beauty reveals itself in the small things: in the view of the vast ocean, in an open conversation, in the scent of rosemary. Universality also means appreciating differences, listening before judging, and believing that meaning and justice can flourish where we truly see one another. For me, it is a compass – quiet but clear – for a life in balance and in the trust that everything is connected.

Power is a value that constantly challenges me.

For me, power is an ambivalent value. It means effectiveness, the power to shape things, influence – the ability to make a difference and take responsibility. At the same time, it demands mindfulness, because every form of power carries the risk of becoming too dominant. It's about maintaining a balance between clear leadership and humility, between persuasiveness and listening. True strength, in my view, isn't about asserting oneself, but about empowering others to become effective themselves. Using power consciously – with respect, transparency, and inner clarity – is perhaps one of the greatest challenges. When it's based on trust and integrity, it can become something profoundly positive: a force that unites rather than divides.

Togetherness is a value that our society should embrace more.

Togetherness – a value that sounds simple, yet is demanding. In a world that is often loud, fast-paced, and self-absorbed, we need conscious moments of pause to truly be there for one another. For me, humanity means seeing the other person – with their strengths, doubts, and idiosyncrasies – and approaching them with respect and openness; being curious about other people and their lives. Togetherness means giving space instead of taking, listening instead of judging, sharing instead of dividing. It's not about homogenization, but about belonging – about everyone counting. When we learn to take responsibility for one another in small ways, something great grows: a society that radiates warmth, trust, and cohesion.

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