Discovering Your Core Values

When life feels overwhelming, uncertain, or out of line, it’s often because we’re not living in line with our core values. Values are the foundation of our decisions, behaviors, and relationships. They define who we are and guide us towards a meaningful living.

What Are Core Values and Why Are They Important?

• Core values are deeply held beliefs about what is important in life. They reflect what we truly care about, motivate us to take action and they serve as an internal compass.

• When our actions are out of sync with values, it can lead to stress, confusion, and a sense of emptiness. Some common examples of values include: working hard, balance, play, integrity, and interpersonal connection. There are many values that someone may choose. 

• While most people have various values, narrowing down to your top three core values can bring clarity and focus to your life. Identifying these values helps you make decisions that reflect what truly matters to you. 

What Does It Mean to Live a Life Aligned with Your Core Values?

Living in line with your values means that your actions, decisions, and behaviours reflect what is most important to you. It’s about making choices that bring meaning to your life rather than simply responding to external pressures or societal expectations.

Some ways to start living a values-driven life include:

• Making decisions that reflect your values: Before making a major decision, ask yourself, “Does this choice align with my core values?”
• Prioritizing what matters most: When life gets busy, focus on the activities and relationships that reflect your core values.
• Setting boundaries: Saying no to things that don’t align with your values helps protect your mental health and emotional energy.

Living according to your core values can bring clarity to your life, help you focus on what truly matters, and improve your mental well-being.

How to Discover Your Core Values: Tools and Techniques

Exploring your values is a powerful process, but it often requires some reflection and introspection. Here are a few methods that can help you identify what truly matters to you:

• Reflect on Peak Moments in Your Life – Think about moments when you felt deeply fulfilled or proud. What were you doing? Who were you with? These moments often reflect your core values at their best.
• Try the Val-You Game – A values card sort, such as Val-You Game, is a fun and effective way to identify your core values. This game challenges you to narrow down your values to the three that matter most. You can play alone, with a friend or group, or one of our counsellor can guide you through this deep exploration.  www.valyougame.com. 
• Ask Yourself Deep Questions – Some questions that may help you identify your values include:
  • What do I want to be known for?
  • What brings me the most satisfaction in life?
  • What would I fight for if necessary?
• Exploring Core Values Through Counselling – Working with a counsellor can help you gain deeper insights into your values. Counselling provides a safe space for self-exploration, reflection, and support as you uncover and define what matters most to you

It’s important to recognize that values can evolve. Life experiences and stages – such as changes in relationships, careers, or personal growth – can prompt shifts in what you prioritize. If you’ve explored your values in the past but feel lost or disconnected from them now, it’s possible they’ve changed. It might be time to revisit them!

Ready to Explore Your Core Values?

Understanding your values is one of the most empowering steps you can take for your mental health. Whether you are navigating life transitions or simply looking for more direction and purpose, discovering and aligning with your values can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Looking to work with a counsellor to explore your core values and live a more meaningful life? Contact us if you are read to take the next step.

Get in touch with us and book your free 15-minute consultation.