What Are Core Values?
Values are traits or qualities deemed to be morally good and thus are valued as a foundation or principle and good moral being. Personal virtues are characteristics valued as promoting collective and individual greatness- Wikipedia
The decisions we make are a reflection of our values and beliefs. Values form our thoughts, words, and actions and are the essence of our character. By taking the time to identify and reflect on our core values and ones that we would like to strive for, we can have clarity in our life message.
The Importance of Identifying Your Values
Our own personal values drive behavior. They define how we behave and act as pillars to make solid decisions in different situations.
Once we identify our core values, we can lead a more productive life. When we can be cognisant of our life values and live up to our values, we are more apt to be happy. People with joy and clarity are more focused and productive. Identifying our values also allows us to live life to our standards and not the standards of others. We can be in tune with what is important to us and not someone else’s standards. When we can identify our values, we will live our own authentic selves.
Consider your life values as they are now and how you want to see your future self. How do you want to be remembered? Once you can pinpoint and clarify those values, you can work towards becoming the person you want to be.
How to Identify your Core Values
This exercise helped me identify the values I want to possess to live my authentic self. By completing this exercise and reflecting, I have clarity on how I want to conduct myself and live my life moving forward.
I am providing a list of values for you to consider. These may not be all of the values, so please be sure to add your own if it isn’t listed. Circle three that resonate most with you. As you look through the list, ask yourself:
- What matters most to me?
- When do I feel like I’m living my best life?
- How do I want to be remembered?
- Why are these values important to me?
How to Use Your Values and Find Clarity in Your Life
Once you have identified your three core values, write them down. I put reminders by my desk and mirror. I have alarms set up through the day on my phone with my three value words. This helps remind me of the values I am striving for.
I set my day with the intention of how to live my life true to my values. I read affirmations to myself and journal how I used my values for the day. Take the time to think of your values as you enter a conversation, workplace, or meeting. Visualize how you want that interaction to go to reflect your best self.
Your value words will motivate you. Identifying and having clarity on your values also help you move past challenging feelings and help you make tough decisions by referring back to your values.
The Last Thing You Need to Know About Core Values and Clarity
I invite you to act upon your three values as well as focus on a trait for each month.
Each month, I will post a value or virtue of the month. They will have a definition, affirmations, and quotes, about each value. Please feel free to reflect on that virtue for the month or choose your own.
Check out this post on How To Build Confidence.
