Do you know what your values are? Most people would say they know but when asked exactly what those values are, may be hard pressed to come up with an answer.
Most of us don’t spend much time considering our values, let alone whether we are acting in alignment with them. This is actually a very important exercise.
If you generally feel a sense of confusion, frustration, irritation or anxiety, chances are your actions are not in alignment with your values.
So, what are values? Below is a small list of values to get you started on creating your own list. Add to it and make it your own. Spend some time making a list of what you truly value and then narrow it down to your top 3. Each day, ask yourself if your actions are in alignment with your top 3 values. If they are, congratulations! If they aren’t, it’s time to make a conscious decision to get your actions in alignment with your values.
Authenticity Accountability Diversity Comfort Family Creativity Integrity Education
Fun Simplicity Innovation Collaboration Cleanliness Community Beauty Intelligence
Boldness Diligence Independence Compassion Confidence Ethics Natural Fitness
Security Trustworthy Passion Boldness Freedom Honesty Quiet Space
Do any of the values on the list jump out at you? Are they things that you highly value but perhaps are not a regular part of your life? I invite you to give it some thought and compile your list. Living in alignment with your core values will bring peace, joy and contentment to your life. Give it a try!
{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
I agree values are very important. Integrity in everything with everyone is my core value. Thanks for a good post.
I so agree, Vicki! My strong values really guide most every decision I make. Thanks for a great article!
I love reading your blog. You always talk about such great topics. Thanks for sharing this post.
Fascinating topic.
Values, like beliefs, are sometimes buried deeply within. I believe we don't always know our values and beliefs, but sometimes state beliefs and values we think (for whatever reason) we "should" have based on messages we've taken in from the culture we are raised in, our family, our friends, etc, etc. This is complicated by the fact that some beliefs and values show up and leave quickly (like a hummingbird) as thoughts float by and it happens so fast we often don't even notice.
If you've got some strategies for helping people (such as myself) be more aware of deeply buried beliefs and values, I would love to hear them.
Kevin Carney – http://www.SoleraGroup.com
Excellent food for thought, Vicki! And when was the last time you shared your values with your immediate family? It'd be an interesting dinner conversation to discuss between parents and kids.
Thanks so much for the comments everyone! Erika, I do attempt to discuss this kind of thing with my daughter. She is only 6 but we still talk about this type of thing. I hope everyone who reads this really thinks about it and discusses it with everyone who is important to them.
Nice article. I am thankful that my values were instilled at a young age and I have been able to build on them each year.
I always look forward to reading your posts. They inspire retrospection and cause me to pause and consider, "for the sake of what do I work so hard?" Very useful to stay connected to what matters in all that we do.
Last night I was dining with my college-age kids home for summer, and we got into some very interesting and deep philosophical discussions. I am very pleased that my work with great teachers like you has helped me become this kind of mother to my now adult children.
Thank you so much for the compliment, Alexandra! I love that you’re having these conversations with your kids!
I couldn't agree more. When we are feeling overwhelmed, stopping and asking if we are doing, or about to do is in alignment with our values. This really helps to make decisions about what REALLY needs to be done and what is important at that moment. Love it, and love that you started the list…
Nice post Vicki. I feel values might evolve over time. I feel like some of mine have. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for your wonderful article. Inspiring as usual. I love the list of values. It's so important to get in touch with our values on a regular basis, especially given the frantic pace of our lives. Thanks!