Values

Values represent who we are. They are principles that we hold to be of worth in our life. They guide how we show up, what we pursue, and how we make meaning of our lives. Values are not what we think we should care about or what others expect of us. They are not morals or ideals. They are the non-negotiable qualities that, when honored, allow us to feel fully alive.

Values whisper. Emotions and desires often shout, but values speak more quietly and steadily. When we take the time to listen, values reveal what gives our lives heart and meaning.

Knowing our values helps us:

• Make clearer decisions

• Feel energized and fulfilled

• Align our actions with our deeper purpose

• Set goals that are worth pursuing

When we live in alignment with our values, life tends to flow. When we ignore them, we may feel stuck, drained, or even lost. Many goals fail not because we lack discipline or skill, but because the goal isn’t tied to our values.

Values are personal. They’re the essence of who we are, not who we hope to be, or think we’re supposed to be, but who we already are at our core. The more we honor them consistently, the more integrity, joy, and possibility we bring into our lives.

Prompts to help you discover values:

• What matters to you?

• What is missing in your life that might point toward an un-honored value?

• Share a peak experience which felt wonderful, full, rich and “just right.” A peak experience may be a major life experience or a small incident. What was it about this experience that made it special? What values were being honored?

• How would your best friend describe you? Or a loved one who really “gets” you?

• What are the moments in your day-to-day life when you feel most yourself, satisfied, and/or fulfilled?

• Describe a time in your life when you were angry, frustrated or upset. What was missing?

• What legacy do you want to leave?

Coaching application: Invite a client to describe a peak experience. Help them unpack what values were being honored.

Life application: Journal about a time when you felt fully alive. What values were being expressed?

Relevant Upbuild content:

[Podcast] What If I’m Not Fulfilled At Work? (Apple / Spotify)