Identify Core Values
Without understanding the things in our life that matter to us, we are directionless. We have no basis for our decision making. It is like traveling in the wilderness without a compass. Purposefully taking time to identify our values is an essential step in living a purposeful and meaningful life. Your core values are the deepest truths about what you hold sacred, what energizes you, and what you cannot compromise without losing yourself. They are not what others expect you to value, but what genuinely resonates in your heart when no one else is watching. When you know your values, every choice becomes clearer. Relationships, career decisions, how you spend your time, all begin to align with who you truly are rather than who you think you should be. This alignment brings a profound sense of peace and authenticity. Living by your values doesn't guarantee an easy life, but it guarantees a life that feels genuinely yours, where your actions flow from your deepest convictions rather than external pressures.
Understanding the Science
Research in psychology shows that people who have clarity about their core values experience significantly higher levels of life satisfaction, resilience, and psychological well-being. Studies demonstrate that values clarification activates the brain's reward centers and strengthens neural pathways associated with intrinsic motivation and self-determination. When people make decisions aligned with their values, brain imaging shows increased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, associated with self-reflection and meaning-making. Values-based living also reduces activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, which processes conflict and stress. Research by Dr. Tim Kasser and others reveals that people who prioritize intrinsic values like personal growth, relationships, and community contribution report greater happiness than those focused on extrinsic values like wealth or fame. Additionally, studies in Self-Determination Theory show that values alignment is crucial for intrinsic motivation, the type of motivation most strongly linked to sustained engagement, creativity, and mental health. When our actions match our values, we experience what researchers call "eudaimonic well-being," a deep sense of purpose and flourishing that goes beyond temporary happiness.
Success Strategies
1. The Values Check-In: Before making any significant decision, pause and ask "Which of my core values does this choice honor?" Use this as a filter for everything from weekend plans to career moves.
2. The Values Story: Once a week, tell someone a story about a time you acted in alignment with one of your core values. Sharing these stories reinforces your commitment to living authentically.
3. The Role Model Reflection: Identify one person you admire and spend five minutes writing about which of their qualities resonate with your own values. Consider how you might embody those same values in your own unique way.
4. The Values Gratitude Practice: Each morning, express gratitude for one way you lived according to your values the previous day. This reinforces positive patterns and builds momentum for authentic living.
"When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier."
- Roy E. Disney
Connection Matters:
Use the connection cards below to start a conversation with the people around you.