How to Create Your Own Personal Core Values
In 2020, when there was political unrest, racial inequality, and a global pandemic, all of our values were questioned. I took this time to create my own core values, six statements that are true to me. In moments of uncertainty, I found it valuable to lean on these values to help guide my decisions.
In our journey through life, having a compass is invaluable. Your core values will serve as this compass, guiding you through the myriad experiences, challenges, and decisions you encounter. Creating your own set of values isn't just a theoretical exercise; it's a practical way to align your actions with your beliefs. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you craft your core values and turn them into a roadmap for a more authentic and fulfilling life.
1. Self-Reflection:
Identify Your Beliefs: Think about the principles that guide your life. What do you believe in? What matters most to you?
Analyze Past Experiences: Reflect on moments when you felt truly proud or fulfilled. What values were being honored in those moments?
Draw Inspiration from Loved Ones: Think about the people you love and admire. What is it about them that you find so compelling? Write down these traits. These qualities often reflect the values you hold dear and can be a source of inspiration.
2. Identify Words & Themes
Explore Existing Lists: You can start by exploring existing value lists like the one provided. While these might not perfectly match your sentiments, they can serve as a springboard for your ideas. Go through a list and write down anything that resonates with you. From there, start to group all similar values from the list of values you just created. Group them in a way that makes sense to you, personally. Create a maximum of six groupings. Combined with your self-reflection, this will start defining your list of values.
3. Create Action-Oriented Values:
Craft Clear, Concise Statements: Transform your core values into actionable statements. For instance, instead of "Authenticity," consider "Speak my truth even when it’s uncomfortable." These action-based values act as a definitive roadmap, guiding your conduct and decisions.
Refine: Crafting your values is an iterative process. Write them down, then rewrite them. Let the words sink in. Do they truly resonate with who you are? Keep refining until they feel like a natural extension of yourself.
4. Integrate Values Into Your Life:
Daily Reminders: Find ways to remind yourself of your core values daily. This could be through affirmations, journaling, or visual cues. I keep a note on my phone and habitually read them during my morning routine.
Decision Making: Use your core values to guide decision-making processes. Ask yourself, "Does this align with my core values?"
5. Embrace Future Growth:
Evolution of Values: Understand that your values are dynamic, evolving as you grow. Envision your future self. While you might partially embody some values now, they are meant to inspire progress. These values are your North Star, guiding you toward the person you aspire to become.
Remember, your core values are not just words on paper but the principles that define you. Embrace them, live them, and let them shape your journey. Have fun with these, be open, and be free in your expression and reflection. As you navigate the complexities of life, your values will stand as a beacon, illuminating the path to a more authentic and purposeful existence.
