How to Create a Values-Driven Life: What are your core values?

Full Transcript

Hey there! I'm Danielle Hagerty, and welcome to our series on embracing your core values. Before we dive in, take a moment to think: What's guiding your life right now? Is it your job, your relationships, or maybe something else entirely? Consider that thought as we explore values and why they're crucial in our lives.

Imagine you're out on the water with the sun shining and a gentle breeze powering your sailboat. What are your core values? They're like your steering wheel in life. Just as a steering wheel determines your sailboat's direction, your values guide you toward the life you want to live. They're not about what others think you should care about but what truly resonates with you at your core.

Now, let's make this more personal. Think about a recent decision you made. Maybe it was about your career, a relationship, or even a purchase. What influenced that choice? That influence might just be a clue to your values.

Values act as an internal compass. When you're faced with a decision, big or small, they help you choose the path that best aligns with who you are and what matters most to you.

Let's look at some examples. Say you value creativity. You might find yourself drawn to jobs that allow for innovation or prioritizing time for expressive hobbies. If you value family, you might make choices that allow for more quality time with loved ones.

Here's where I want you to participate. In the comments, share one decision you've made recently that reflects something you value. This interaction can help us all learn from each other!

Now, let's dig a little deeper. Values can come from different sources, and understanding this can be eye-opening. Some are intrinsic – they come from within you. Others are extrinsic – they come from external sources like your family, community, or spiritual beliefs.

Intrinsic values might include things like personal growth or self-expression. Extrinsic values could be social status or financial success. Both types can be important, but it's crucial to understand which ones genuinely resonate with you.

Here's a question: Think about something you're proud of achieving. Was it motivated by an intrinsic or extrinsic value? Understanding this can reveal a lot about what drives you.

Now, I want to share a little trick to help you start identifying your values. Think about verbs – action words – that are important to you. Maybe it's "to create," "to nurture," "to learn," or "to lead." These can be powerful clues to your core values.

Let's try this together. I'll give you a moment to think of three verbs that feel really important to you. Go ahead and pause the video if you need more time. Got them? Great! These verbs are windows into your values.

Now, here's where it gets fun. I want you to share one of your verbs in the comments. Then, look at what others have shared. You might be surprised at the diversity – or the similarities – in what people value.

As we wrap up today, I want to leave you with a challenge. Over the next week, pay attention to the choices you make and try to identify which values guide those decisions. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself!

Thanks for joining me today. Understanding your values is the first step to living a more fulfilling life. In our next video, we'll explore why values are having such a moment and how they impact various aspects of our lives.

Until then, keep reflecting on those verbs and the values they represent. Your journey to a more value-aligned life has just begun!