Understanding and Implementing Your Values
What are values? Values are not to be confused with indoctrinated principles or morals.
Values are the direction in life that you choose to follow. Values act as a guide or your personal North Star.
What I love about being clear about values is that having them makes decision making so easy! For example, if you already know you will not engage with toxic people, no matter what opportunity arises, you will say, “No.” There is no give and take and no negotiation required. Your level of personal peace is expanded because of your inner knowing of being so very certain.
Imagine your values like an umbrella above you. They are there to protect you and are something that you can look up to. When life is tough and your emotions confuse the picture, your values remain known and clear.
Your values tell you what to do when you are feeling irritable and are prompted by your emotions to be reactive. Your values serve to guide you when you prefer to procrastinate rather than take action. You can ask yourself, “What do I want now?” Think about the answer. Is it in line with your values? You will know when you answer the next question. “What do I want MOST?” What you want most is going to be in alignment with your values.
Values are not goals. Goals are specific and measurable. Under the hierarchy of your values, you can identify goals. For example, if you value connection and authenticity in relationships and your goal is to be in a romantic relationship, you will have a much easier time navigating dating and managing your time because you will know whether you are showing up in a way that is true to yourself, and whether you feel a connection with the other party. Boom! There is no need to hesitate, re-think, and negotiate. You will know.
Your thoughts and feelings are vast and fluid. Your values are constant (until you decide to re-state your values.) This can be so reassuring during tumultuous times. When facing divorce, unemployment, or parenting challenges, being crystal clear and following your own North Star will vastly diminish your stress.
Your values will vary in different areas of your life. Each area can be termed a domain, and these domains include:
Family
Friendship
Spirituality
Romance
Work
Recreation
Health and Fitness
Education
Community
Knowing our values is a MUST for you to live your life being true to yourself. Here are some words that may help you identify your own values:
Adventurous
Authentic
Beauty
Calm
Caring
Collaborative
Connection
Curious
Empathic
Energetic
Engaged
Focused
Friendly
Hardworking
Humorous
Loving
Open
Passionate
Persistent
Reliable
Thoughtful
visionary
If you feel an emotional reaction to a word, such as, “I could never be that way!” take a closer look. Maybe being that way is important to you. Maybe fear is blocking you from living your life exactly as you would like to! I am here to support you on your journey to living a life in alignment with your true values!
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