“It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.” ― Roy Disney

Last week I wrote about why values are important.  They are priorities that let you know where you should focus your time and energy.   When you are living your values, life feels like it is in flow.

One of the easiest ways to figure out your values is to think of the times in your life when you felt most alive.  Spend about 10 minutes in free-flow writing about those experiences.  What was present that made you come alive?  Who were you with?  What was the environment like?  What were you doing?

Now look at what you have written, and highlight what pops out for you.  You can even set aside your notes and come back to them after an hour.  Or you could enroll a friend to help you look for the themes which are showing up.  Narrow the list down to the top 5 to 7.

That is your list of values. Keep it close to you.  Ideally, know your values by heart. And the next time you feel off, check to see which value is not being honored in that moment.  Once you identify the value, what is one step you could take to be in integrity with it?

For me, the experiences where I felt happiest included connecting with people, using my creativity, being autonomous, following my heart, engaging my spiritual side, contributing meaningfully, sharing, and learning.  My top values are:  connection, spirituality, growth, playfulness, autonomy, contribution.

By knowing your values, you have the advantage of clarity about what matters to you.  Now you can shift your focus so that they become the priority and that your actions are in accordance with them.

Are you honoring your values?

Do you want to realize your best life? Message me at [email protected], and let’s schedule a chat to see if we are a fit or to help you find other resources to best serve you.

Want to receive these posts directly to your inbox? Click here to sign up and receive your free guide to discovering your strengths and passions.