10 Hawaiian Values To Live Your Life By

There are many things you are not allowed to take from Hawaii and bring home, like sand from the beaches and rocks from the volcanoes. But the culture and lessons that can be learned from the Hawaiian values and unique history is something that is freely given out, and they are more than happy to share.

Mālama

Translation: To tend to, care for, preserve, protect, watch over

Meaning: The idea of mālama describes taking care of the earth and its creatures, and can easily be applied to day-to-day life. For example, if you spend your time elevating others, you’ll create stronger bonds and better relationships with the people around you.

Pa’a ka waha

Translation: Close your mouth, observe and then act

Meaning: To observe and learn from your surroundings or “if words are exiting your mouth, wisdom cannot pass through”. The more you actively listen to and observe the environment around you, the more you will learn and be able to contribute when you finally do speak.

Kuleana

Translation: A sense of responsibility, accountability
Meaning: It is a life code for holding yourself accountable with the belief that if you seek personal improvement as a goal, you will be self-motivated to pursue it throughout your life.

Lōkahi

Translation: Balance and harmony

Meaning: The idea that our mind, body, and the universe are all connected with each other promotes group consciousness and the belief that harmony within a group or population will secure survival.

Aloha

Translation: What’s mine is yours, unconditional love
Meaning: Aloha is not only a greeting, but a way of life. In traditional Hawaiian values, its meaning is much deeper and spiritual than how it is used today.

Ka lā hiki ola

Translation: Each day is brand new

Meaning: The idea that each day is new breeds a hope and optimism for each and every morning. It is motivation to move forward and take advantage of each new beginning.

Nānā i ke kumu

Translation: Know your truth, trust yourself
Meaning: Sometimes it is difficult to trust our own instincts, but this particular Hawaiian value steers away from that doubt and promotes a strong sense of self-reliance.

Trust yourself and rely on your own instincts

Alaka’i

Translation: To be a strong leader, to lead by example

Meaning: Being able to guide others comes easier once you have earned their respect. The Hawaiians believe that taking a more emotional approach to leading and guiding nurtures the strength of the individual as well as the group.

Leadership in the shape of lifeguard instruction

‘Ike loa

Translation: Importance of educating oneself
Meaning: It is important to never stop learning. Always actively seek knowledge in the world around you for the purpose of your own self-growth.

‘Ohana

Translation: Family

Meaning: The Hawaiians believe that family is something that you decide to create for yourself, so whether you are connected by blood or just by spirit. Everyone is ‘uncle’ or ‘auntie’ on the islands, even if you have just met. The concept of ‘Ohana is rooted in the belief that people are connected in so many different ways, and that it is our job to find that connection.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

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