Don’t Lose Sight of the Forest Through The Trees
In the hustle and bustle of every day, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters to us. Our core values, the guiding principles that shape our decisions and actions, often get buried beneath the demands of work, relationships, and other obligations.
Between graduations, weddings, and kid’s summer schedules, thinking about core values is just another thing on the never-ending to do list! But if we are to live a life that minimizes regrets and maximizes our potential, it’s imperative that we know and honor our values.
Core Value Temperature Check
Just as we periodically check our physical health, it’s crucial to take a “temperature check” of our core values to ensure we’re living with them. Determining our values can be daunting! I suggest starting with the VIA Signature Strengths Survey. The quick 10-minute survey provides a prioritized list of 24 core values – that when used regularly become signature strengths. The research suggests that our satisfaction and performance is magnified when we are deploying our core strengths.
Three additional tips:
Decision Making: When faced with a challenging decision, make time to get centered. Then ask yourself what values are at stake and which option allows you to honor your core values. It doesn’t mean there won’t be a trade-off but at least you’ll take comfort knowing you acted in alignment with your core values.
Set Clear Boundaries: Setting boundaries at work, at home, and in relationships is a fabulous way to honor your values by asserting your priorities, and preventing others from imposing their expectations onto you.
Practice Self-Expression: Whether it’s through creative pursuits, hobbies, or advocating for causes you believe in, find ways to authentically express yourself and contribute positively to your community and the world around you. Every little bit helps. Even picking up litter!
By incorporating these tips alongside tools like the VIA survey, you can cultivate a deeper sense of authenticity and alignment with your core values.
Putting Core Values into Practice
Recently, a client had a tough decision to make when she realized that the new boss she was working for had vastly different values regarding how to treat people than she did. After trying to contort herself to adapt, and leaving work with stomach aches, she finally realized that as much as she valued her work she needed to work for someone whose values of collaboration and respect aligned with hers. Three months later she was able to change teams to work for a manager with a reputation for being a strong developer of talent.
I encourage you to wholeheartedly embrace being led by your core values. I’m doubling down on this right beside you.
Until next time.
