Have you ever completed an exercise in which you identify five core values to focus on? If everything is a #corevalue, there are no priorities. Think about your own core (personal) values and what matters to you most. Start by selecting five values from this list:

Values

Authenticity Achievement
Adventure Autonomy
Balance Compassion
Community Curiosity
Fairness Friendships
Happiness Kindness
Learning Love
Peace Reputation
Respect Responsibility
Security Self-Respect
Service Success
Trust Wisdom

While I chose five, there are sources that state the relevance of 7, 10, or 12 values. The key is that they are guiding principles that do not change. For each of the values you choose—some of which might not be listed here, but are relevant for you—generate a values statement. For example:

  • Authenticity…know and do what is right.
  • Kindness…make kindness truly king.
  • Respect…do unto others.
  • Responsibility…embrace the chance to contribute.
  • Service…serve the common good.

Discovery

Begin with discovery; a certified coach is helpful in completing this step. Here are two steps to jumpstart the process:

  1. Think like a beginner by taking a deep breath and emptying your mind.
  2. Create your list of five values by thinking of an experience that defined you, and one that caused disruption in your life. Consider your own code of conduct and what you need to get through each day.

Use these steps as your personal discovery tool. Use your values to make decisions, define and actualize a plan, and picture your future!

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”

      ―Ralph Waldo Emerson