What are your values? ✨How to audit your values and discover whats truely important to YOU 💡
Our values are the guiding principles that shape our decisions and behaviours, but they are often affected by the subtle echoes of family, the dynamic sway of friends, and the constant hum of external influences. Discover the art of discernment and unlock the secrets of a values audit, as a transformative tool that guides you toward authenticity.
From the moment we enter the world, our families impart a set of values that serve as a blueprint for our lives. These values act as a guide, shaping our behavior and influencing the choices we make. However, as we mature and seek our own identities, we may discover that some of these inherited values no longer align with our authentic selves. It's crucial to recognise and, if necessary, consciously return values that no longer serve us, expressing gratitude for the lessons they provided.
For instance, growing up in a family that valued shielding others from harsh truths and avoiding difficult conversations, I realised that this no longer served my preference for open communication and authenticity. Understanding this misalignment allowed me to consciously return this value to my family, fostering a more genuine connection with my own values.
Beyond family, our values can be influenced by friends, workplace environments, and external factors like technology and media. In a fast-paced world inundated with distractions, it's easy to lose touch with our authentic values. Distractions can lead us to adopt values that don't resonate with our true selves, emphasising the importance of a values audit.
To gain clarity on your values, consider conducting a values audit every six months. Start by compiling a list of values that resonate with you by searching for examples online. Narrow down your list through a process of comparison, pitting values against each other until you identify your top 5 or 6. Then, create personalized definitions for each value based on your unique perspective and experiences.
In my own journey, I realised that my values of creativity and authenticity were closely intertwined. Crafting personal definitions for each allowed me to merge them into a more concise set of values that truly reflected my essence. This combination won’t work for everyone but thats the beauty of defining your values for yourself.
Once you've defined your values, regularly assess your alignment with them. Keep a journal, reflecting on how you embodied each value daily. If you consistently score low on a particular value, it indicates an area that needs attention and alignment. By making decisions in line with your values, you move closer to your most authentic self.
As we navigate the complexities of life, our values serve as a compass, guiding us towards authenticity and fulfilment. Through self-discovery, discernment, and a commitment to aligning with our values, we can navigate the sea of influences and distractions, creating a life that truly resonates with our deepest selves. Take the time to conduct a values audit, redefine what matters most to you, and step confidently into a life that aligns with your authentic values.
