Last post I shared that disconnection from meaningful values was the primary reason I experienced a breakdown and why so many of us struggle with depression and anxiety.
We all know that “junk values” keep us stuck playing the comparison game and feeling like we are not enough. It’s time for us the wake up, show up and live our truth.
The only way we can live our truth is to be clear on our values.
I wanted to share with you how I got clarity on my values. I love values work! Values are the foundational piece for getting out of survival mode and back to thriving.
Having clarity on our values makes it so much easier to admit what we really want.
We need to need to close the gap between who we are in this moment and who we want to be. Our values guide our actions. They help us live with purpose. Without them we are blindly stumbling through life and mismanaging our energy and gifts.
Imagine waking up energized because you are living with intention. You have access to ease, joy and freedom.
There are many different ways to coming up with your list of values. The exact steps aren’t important but I do recommend that you approach your chosen method with playfulness. You get to choose how you want to feel.
Here’s a simple way to uncover your core values by tapping into your feeling. Find a quiet spot to sit and grab a paper and pen.
Step 1: Get still, close your eyes and allow your body to relax.
Step 2: Ask yourself “How do I want to feel?” Listen to what pops up, no judgement. Notice how your body feels.
Step 3: Now ask yourself “What do I value?” Listen and take your time.
Step 4: When you feel complete, open your eyes and write down all the values that came up. More might pop into your head as you are writing; add those to your list too. Make your list as long as possible (aim for a minimum of 30).
Step 5: Read through your list and star the 10 values you want to guide your life.
Step 6: Now take your 10 values write them in order of priority. (#1 being the most important)
When I last did this exercise my top 5 values were:
1. health
2. connection
3. learning
4. joy
5. freedom
What are yours? Please reach out and share them with me. The more we voice our values the easier it to be ourselves and make meaningful connections. We don’t need to hide who we are and what is important to us. There is no way to get this wrong. You just need to show up and own your values.
Wishing you all the ease, joy and freedom you desire!
Anastasia Hendryanto
Life Design Coach and Enneagram Teacher
