Values are like an internal guidance system that underpins our personal barometer of fairness and fulfilment. Though we’re not often aware of them, falling foul of our values can leave us feeling out of sync with life with no real understanding of why. 

Taking some time to think about your values can get you back on track, making sure you focus on the things that will leave you feeling valued, understood and satisfied. 

Step 1: Define your values 

What concepts or principles do you hold dear in life? What is most important to you? List your top 5 here, in priority order:

1. ______________________________________________________________________________

2. ______________________________________________________________________________ 

3. ______________________________________________________________________________ 

4. ______________________________________________________________________________ 

5. _______________________________________________________________________________ 

Step 2: Rate your values 

Give each of your values a score out of 1-10 (1 being ‘not at all’ and 10 being ‘completely’) indicating the extent to which you’re honouring those values in your life right now. How are the lower-scoring values impacting your life? What would happen if you were to raise all of your scores? How would it feel? 

Step 3: Live closer to your values 

If you’re rating 7-10’s well done! If you have a value rating lower than a 5, consider how you could reframe the way you approach your life to align it more to that value. What might you need to change in your life or in your behaviour to get closer to a 7-10? Make a list of 3 actions you could start taking today that will move you closer. 

TIP: Keep your values in your wallet and refer to them whenever you’re required to do something you don’t feel 100% comfortable with. How will the task deliver on those values? How could you change the task to make sure it did? If your values are being compromised, can you say no? This is especially helpful if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

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