Principles are universal truths. They apply to everything, and thus, are useless in distinguishing who you are. You need to dig deeper and find what makes you you. You need to know your values. While principles are universal, values are personal.

A simple test is to formulate the opposing value. If your value is "Simplicity" then the opposing value... See more

If you’re looking to create a timeless sense of purpose and to shape the overall mission of your life, then you should use principles. Establishing a set of principles creates a compass to which you can refer whenever something is in doubt or you need to take a stand or evaluate any particular opportunity, behavior, or situation.