A Guide to Figuring Out Your Values
In our fast pace world it is easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of every day life, losing site of what truly matters to us. But it is important to slow down, and ask ourselves, “What are the principles that guide our decisions and actions?” “What are the values that define who we are?” Values are the things in life that you feel are most important to you. Values are unique to each person. For example, one person may value close relationships with their family members, while another person may place more value on their career.
Discovering your values is a crucial step in living a fulfilling and authentic life. In this blog post, we will explore how to figure out your values and make them a compass for your life journey.
Reflect on your life experiences
One of the most effective ways to start identifying your values is to reflect on your life experiences. Think about the moments when you felt most fulfilled, proud, or deeply satisfied. What was it about those situations that made you feel this way? It could be experiences like helping others, making memories with your children or grandchildren, pursuing a dream, or standing up for a cause. These moments can offer valuable insights into your core values.
Identify what makes you emotional
Our emotions often serve as a compass pointing towards our values. Pay close attention to the times when you've felt intense emotions, both positive and negative. Love, anger, joy, and sadness can all reveal what truly matters to you. For instance, I have a client who is fired up when discussing animal wellfare, which indicated to her that she has a strong value for helping care for animals.
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Your strengths and weaknesses can also provide insight about your values. The things you excel at often align with your values because they naturally energize you and bring you joy. On the other hand, your weaknesses may reveal areas where you lack alignment with your values and need to make changes.
Prioritize and Clarify your values
After gathering information through reflection, start to prioritize your values. People usually come up with a set of values that are important to them. Rank them in order of importance, keeping in mind, these priorities may evolve over time and through different seasons of your life.
Live out your values
Once you have a clear understanding of your values, it's time to integrate them into your daily life. Make conscious choices that align with your values and beliefs. Whether it's in your career, relationships, or personal development, ensure that your actions and decisions reflect what you hold dear. This alignment between your values and actions is a key to living a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Discovering your values is an ongoing process. As you grow and evolve, your values may shift and adapt to new experiences and perspectives. Don't be afraid to revisit and reevaluate your values from time to time. Understanding your values will not only guide your life choices but also bring a sense of purpose and meaning to your life!