Understanding Values: The Feelings We Seek in Pursuit of Goals
- Lisa Klassen
- Jul 15, 2024
- 2 min read
"Values are like fingerprints. Nobody's are the same, but you leave 'em all over everything you do." — Elvis Presley
Recent discussions on values have unveiled a compelling insight: beyond mere preferences, our values are deeply intertwined with the emotions we seek to experience through our pursuits. Many of these conversations centered on real estate, yet they shared a common theme: the quest for security. For those considering homeownership, regardless of market conditions, the desire to escape the whims of landlords and build equity reflects a fundamental craving for stability and autonomy.
In our journey towards personal and professional goals, we often fixate on tangible outcomes while overlooking the emotional rewards that truly resonate with us. Our values serve as guiding lights, illuminating paths that lead to experiences imbued with emotions like security, freedom, and fulfillment.
Consider the emotions evoked when envisioning your goals. Are you propelled by the thrill of achievement, the joy of creativity, or the tranquility of stability? These emotional responses unveil the core values underpinning your aspirations.
Aligning our goals with these core values imbues our journey with deeper meaning and satisfaction. Each milestone achieved resonates profoundly because it reinforces our values and propels us towards the emotional fulfillment we seek.
Action Items to Identify Your Core Values:
Reflect on Peak Experiences: Recall moments of utmost satisfaction or pride in your life. These often align closely with your core values.
Conduct a Values Assessment: Use tools or worksheets to systematically explore and rank different core values based on their significance to you.
Journaling and Self-Reflection: Dedicate time to journal about your beliefs, priorities, and what holds utmost importance in your life. Use prompts to delve deeper into understanding your values.
Seek Feedback from Others: Gain insights from trusted friends, family, or colleagues on the values they perceive as most significant to you.
Understanding that our values are intricately linked to the emotions we pursue through our goals is fundamental to living authentically. By consciously aligning our aspirations with what truly matters—whether it's security, freedom, love, or creativity—we can navigate life's choices with clarity and purpose.
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