An exercise to identify your core values, helping you make decisions that align with your true self.
Making decisions, especially difficult ones, becomes easier when you know what you truly stand for. This exercise helps you clarify your core values.
Look through a list of values (you can search for 'list of core values' online) and write down every single one that resonates with you. Don't overthink it. Examples include: Authenticity, Adventure, Compassion, Creativity, Financial Security, Growth, Honesty, Humor, Justice, Kindness, Knowledge, Leadership, Love, Loyalty, Order, Personal Growth, Recognition, Security, Spirituality, Stability, Success, Tradition, Wealth, Wisdom.
Look at your list. Can you group any similar values together? For example, 'Kindness' and 'Compassion' might fall under one theme for you. Your goal is to narrow your list down to your top 10 most important values.
From your list of 10, force yourself to choose the 5 that are most essential to who you are. This can be difficult. Ask yourself: 'If I could only live by one of these values, which would it be?' Use this process to rank them and find your top 5.
For each of your top 5 values, write a short paragraph answering these questions:
Keep this list somewhere you can see it. When facing a tough choice, review your core values and ask, 'Which option best aligns with who I am?'