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Companies promote core values—State Farm promises neighborly care; Nike urges, “Just Do It.” But do you have personal core values? When defined and used, they act as guideposts that simplify decisions, strengthen relationships, and keep your life aligned with what matters most. Most people live by values but can’t name them. Let's identify your core values:
DISCOVERY EXERCISE
- Start by choosing action-oriented words—verbs that describe how you want to show up: grow, give, serve, trust, learn. Pick 7–12 words that genuinely resonate.
- Then test them: ask three people who know you well whether those words fit, and listen for patterns. Their feedback gives you a clearer, more honest picture.
- Next, use them as a filter. Reflect on big wins and hard moments—did your actions reflect those values? Refine your list until it reliably describes how you want to behave.
I call my decision test the “life colander.” When a major choice appears, I “pour” it through my values—if it sticks to enough of them, I move forward; if not, I let it go. This keeps choices practical, not just aspirational.
Core values aren’t constraints; they’re freedom tools. They reduce doubt, preserve energy, and create consistency in how you live and lead. Define yours, get honest feedback, and apply them daily. Do that, and you’ll find clearer priorities, bolder decisions, and a life that actually reflects who you aim to be.
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