Values at Work

Values are the guiding principles that shape our beliefs, actions, and therefore our experiences. They should influence what we prioritize, and ultimately, serve as a gauge for whether our life is aligning with our true aspirations.  You likely already live by a subset of unconscious values that you’ve developed throughout your life based on your beliefs.  But are those values relevant to where you want to go and who you truly want to be?

Examples of Values from our Podcast Episode "Values at Work"

1. Optimism: Maintaining a positive outlook, believing in ourselves and our abilities to create positive change.
2. Forgiveness: This can mean letting go of resentment and bitterness to create a space for growth and positive relationships.
3. Innovation: Embracing creativity, taking risks, and seeking new solutions to complex problems.

Thought-proving questions from our podcast: 

What brings you joy and fulfillment in life?

Think about the moments when you feel most alive, energized, and happy. What were you doing? Who were you with?

What are your non-negotiables? These are the things you absolutely won't compromise on, no matter what. They could be values such as integrity, honesty, family, or personal growth.

Who do you admire? What qualities do they possess that resonate with you?

Discovering Your Personal Values

Step 1: Reflect on Your Life Experience: Take some time to think about your life experiences, relationships, and goals.

Ask yourself the following questions:

•  What are some of my most cherished memories?
• What are some of the most significant challenges I've faced, and how did I overcome them?
• What are some of my greatest strengths and accomplishments?
• What are some areas where I feel most fulfilled and satisfied?

Step 2: Identify Your Core Values

Using your reflections from Step 1, write down a list of words or phrases that come to mind when you think about what's important to you.

These could be values related to:

• Relationships (e.g., loyalty, empathy)
• Personal growth (e.g., self-awareness, resilience)
• Career or education (e.g., innovation, hard work)
• Social justice or community (e.g., fairness, equality)
• Health and well-being (e.g., sustainability, wellness)

Step 3: Prioritize Your Values

Using the list from Step 2, rank your values in order of importance to you.

Ask yourself:

• Which values are most essential to me?
• Are there any values that I consider important but not as crucial?
• Are there any values that I've been neglecting or prioritizing incorrectly?

Step 4: Categorize Your Values

Group your top values into categories, such as:

• Career values: e.g., innovation, responsibility
• Personal values: e.g., authenticity, self-awareness
• Social values: e.g., fairness, sustainability
• Relationship values: e.g., empathy, respect

Step 5: Reflect on Your Values in Action

Think about how you live out your values in your daily life.

Ask yourself:

 Do I consistently demonstrate my top value of [insert value here]?

• Are there areas where I struggle to align with my values?
• How can I prioritize my values more effectively?

Example Exercise:

To get started, try answering the following question:

• What is one value that's extremely important to you?
• Write it down and then answer the following questions about it:
• What situations or experiences led me to place this value as a top priority?
• How do I currently demonstrate this value in my life?
• Are there any areas where I can improve or grow in alignment with this value?

Additional Resources:

If you need help exploring your values further, consider the following resources:

Values exercise worksheets: Find online worksheets that guide you through a similar process.

Personal coaching or therapy: Work one-on-one with a coach or therapist to explore your values and create a personalized plan for living out your values.

15 Additional Examples of Values & Definitions:

1. Authenticity: Being true to oneself, without pretenses or pretending to be someone else.
2. Compassion: Showing empathy and kindness towards others, especially those who are suffering or in need.
3. Creativity: Embracing imagination, innovation, and self-expression as a way of life.
4. Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, and being able to see things from their perspective.
5. Fairness: Treating others with justice, equality, and respect, without favoritism or bias.
6. Integrity: Acting in accordance with one's principles and values, even when it's difficult or unpopular.
7. Independence: Valuing autonomy, freedom, and self-sufficiency, while also acknowledging the importance of interdependence.
8. Honesty: Being truthful, transparent, and reliable in all interactions and communications.
9. Respect: Valuing and appreciating the dignity, autonomy, and individuality of others.
10. Responsibility: Taking ownership of one's actions, decisions, and consequences, while also acknowledging the importance of accountability.
11. Self-awareness: Having a clear understanding of one's own strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations.
12. Sustainability: Prioritizing long-term thinking, environmental responsibility, and social impact in all aspects of life.
13. Teamwork: Valuing collaboration, cooperation, and mutual support as essential to achieving common goals.
14. Trustworthiness: Being reliable, dependable, and loyal to others, while also being mindful of trust boundaries.

15. Vulnerability: Embracing openness, honesty, and emotional vulnerability with others, while deepening connections and more meaningful relationships.