Doheny Creative Consulting LLC

In the vast journey of self-discovery, understanding your core values acts as a compass, guiding you through life’s intricate paths. Core values are the fundamental beliefs and principles that shape your identity, influence your decisions, and define the essence of who you are. They serve as a moral and ethical framework, anchoring you to your true self amidst the ever-changing tides of life.

Defining Core Values:

Imagine your core values as the roots of a mighty tree, providing stability and nourishment to your personal growth. These values are not fleeting preferences but enduring convictions that withstand the test of time. They reflect your priorities and aspirations, shaping the way you engage with the world and the people around you.

Core values can span a wide spectrum, encompassing principles like honesty, integrity, compassion, innovation, and more. They often resonate with your authentic self, acting as a beacon that illuminates your purpose and direction in life.

How to Unearth Your Core Values:

1. Self-Reflection: Take the time to reflect on your life experiences, both positive and negative. Consider moments when you felt most fulfilled, proud, or content. Likewise, think about times when you felt conflicted, disappointed, or uneasy. These reflections can unveil underlying values that were at play during those experiences.
2. Identify Influential Figures: Consider the individuals you admire and respect. What qualities do you appreciate in them? The values you find admirable in others often reflect your own priorities. Whether it’s a family member, friend, mentor, or historical figure, identifying these influences can provide valuable insights into your core values.
3. Prioritize and Clarify: List out a set of values that resonate with you, and then prioritize them. Consider which values are non-negotiable, and which ones may be more flexible. Clarify the reasons behind each value, understanding the deeper meaning it holds for you.
4. Observe Your Actions: Your daily actions and choices can reveal a lot about your core values. Take note of the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, as well as those that leave you feeling unsatisfied. Your behavior is often a manifestation of your underlying values.
5. Seek Feedback: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues for feedback. Sometimes, those close to you can offer valuable perspectives on the values they see you embody. Their insights can serve as a mirror, reflecting aspects of your character that you may not have fully recognized.

In the journey to discover your core values, remember that it’s an ongoing process. As you evolve, so too may your values. Embrace the opportunity to revisit and refine them, allowing your core values to serve as a guiding force on your unique life path. By understanding and honoring your core values, you empower yourself to live a more authentic, purpose-driven life.

In addition, taking the time to define your core values for yourself and/or your business can help you create boundaries for your policies, services and employees. You want to be able to create your own brand and culture with meaning and purpose, your core values can help.

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Not sure what your core values are? Schedule your free consultant call today to see how Ashlee can help you find clarity and direction.