Human beings are unique to the Earth and, as animals, we stand out in a number of ways.  We've managed to get top spot on the animal kingdom's totem pole, and we can thank our big, beefy brains for that feat.   Thanks to the uncountable number of neurons and the most sophisticated communication system (language capability), we've evolved into top position with ease.

But with great brainpower comes a lot more than the ability to come up with hunting plans and weapons construction.  Feelings, emotions, spirituality and morals come along with superior intelligence.  But let's focus on morals and values; these two words interchangeably refer to the same thing: the internal compass that humans have to direct decisions and interactions with the outside world.  

Values are the key to the soul; they provide instantaneous insight and instinctive intuition about life and our respective place in it.  Snap decisions are made based on our values, and when we make decisions that oppose our values, the result is guilt and self-disappointment.  

Values come in all different shapes and sizes.  We unconsciously prioritize our beliefs and values and try to make the top picks standards of living for ourselves.  The most admired and respected people are those who are able to stick to their moral compass's directions consistently and effectively.  

Also given the variety that comes within our species itself, it's normal for an individual's set of prioritized values to be as unique to them as their fingerprints.  Although two people may hold different or even opposite values, a mutual respect and admiration can exist if each person shows dedication to living with adherence to their respective values.

So how do you mesh your personal standards with your daily life?  It's true that sometimes we have to make compromises as a means to whatever end we want to reach.  Well, start by minimizing such compromises.  Fulfillment and self-satisfaction are best served by being true to oneself and our beliefs.  Secondly, bring the unconscious up to conscious; if you actively think about what matters most to you, you'll have a much easier time incorporating your philosophies into your behavior.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, if you want to change undesirable behavior, look to first change the value or belief behind the action.  Just altering the behavior isn't enough to truly make a permanent and beneficial change.  Examine what it is that you dislike about the action first, and make the effort to change come from within; the behavior will change as soon as the internal change clicks into place.