In a world dominated by New Year’s resolutions and productivity based worth, it’s easy to lose sight of what we actually value. When was the last time you asked yourself what your measure of worth was to YOU, as opposed to what we’re told by the world around us that we “should” value? While that’s a loaded question, it is one that we should look at more frequently. With a new year under way full of uncertainty and changes abound, looking inwards to what makes us true to ourselves and our own individual values can help us navigate the unknown with a stronger sense of stability.
What Are Values, Really?
At their core, values are the principles and standards that guide our actions and decisions. They reflect what’s truly important to us. Our values shape how we perceive the world, how we react to situations, and the relationships we build. For example, if you deeply value honesty, you may prioritize open communication in all areas of your life. If family is a core value, spending time with loved ones will likely take precedence over other commitments.
Why Do Our Values Evolve?
As we move through different stages of life, our perspectives change. When you’re a child, you may hold certain values that are influenced by your upbringing and environment. As a teenager, your values may be shaped by your desire for independence or your desire to fit in with your peers. As an adult, your values might shift to prioritize stability, health, or personal fulfillment.
Values also evolve because we encounter new ideas, people, and experiences that challenge our thinking. A major life event, such as a relationship, a career change, or a personal crisis, can prompt a reassessment of what’s truly important. Even routine experiences—like travel, meeting new people, or reading—can expand your worldview and encourage you to rethink your values.
How to Start Exploring Your Values
Here are some practical steps to help you identify and reflect on your personal values:
- Make a List
Start by listing the qualities or principles that you feel are most important to you. These could include things like: honesty, freedom, creativity, health, financial security, or adventure. Don’t rush this process; take your time and be as honest with yourself as possible. - Reflect on Key Moments in Your Life
Think about moments that shaped you—both the high points and the low points. What experiences made you feel proud or fulfilled? What situations made you uncomfortable or frustrated? By identifying these moments, you can often trace them back to underlying values. For example, if you felt fulfilled helping others, perhaps compassion or service is a core value for you. - Ask Yourself the Hard Questions
Ask yourself tough but insightful questions:
-What kind of person do I want to be?
-How do I differ from those around me?
-When do I feel most aligned with myself?
-What am I willing to stand up for, no matter the circumstances?
These questions can help you dig deeper into what truly matters to you, beyond external expectations or societal pressures.
- Evaluate Your Current Life
Take a step back and assess your current life. Are your daily actions, goals, and relationships aligned with your values? For example, if you value health but are neglecting self-care, this could indicate a disconnect. Recognizing where your life is misaligned with your values can be a powerful motivator to make changes. - Embrace Change
Remember that your values may change over time, and that’s okay. As you grow and experience new things, it’s natural for your values to shift. In fact, in many ways, we want our values to change over time to reflect our own unique life experiences and growth. Be open to re-evaluating them periodically and embracing new perspectives. Living in alignment with your values brings a sense of peace, fulfillment, and authenticity. When you’re clear on what matters most, decisions become easier, and you’re more likely to make choices that are in line with your true self. On the other hand, when your actions conflict with your values, it can lead to stress, confusion, and dissatisfaction. When you’re authentic about who you are and what you stand for, others are more likely to respect and connect with you on a deeper level.
Practical Tips for Living Your Values Every Day
1. Set Intentions: Each day, set small intentions based on your values. If family is important to you, make an effort to spend quality time with loved ones. If health is a priority, plan meals and workouts ahead of time.
2. Say No When Needed: Protect your values by saying no to things that don’t align with them. If you’re offered an opportunity that compromises your integrity or personal goals, don’t be afraid to walk away.
3. Surround Yourself with Like-minded People: Build relationships with people who share your values. This creates a supportive environment where you can thrive.
4. Check in Regularly: Take time to reflect on your values every few months. Are you still on track? What changes can you make to live even more authentically?