Top Five Values
Values whether we are aware of them or not can be described as the guiding principals that govern our lives. They influence everything we do, from behaviours to decision making.
It’s really important to know our top five values. Research shows that they are formed by the age of 7!
Knowing our values and how they link into everything that we do helps to create more meaning in life, and make decisions based on what is most important to us.
To uncover your values;
Download the value cards worksheet below and print it off (please don’t share it with anyone else).
Go through them word by word and start by crossing off which do not resonate at all, you are looking to only have 5 left at the end of this exercise. Google may come in handy when deciding, to understand the meaning of the words. These are things you COULD NOT compromise on, or live without. (alternatively follow the instructions on the values worksheet then continue with step 3, 4 & 5). You can also use a word that is not on the list that resonates with you.
Look at your five values and ask yourself this question ‘if someone was to follow me around for a week how would they see that this is a top value of mine?” think how you spend your time, money, what you have around you, choices you make etc. If you are unable to have enough evidence to support that this actually is a top value, it may be that it is an aspirational value or something you wish was a value. If you find it is an aspirational value back to the drawing board and replace it.
Then go through each value and write down what this value means to you.
Lastly you need to order them from your top value (number one) through to number five.
Example (have blended the how and the what means to me) 1 - 5.
Curiosity - learning, education, exploration in nature, reading research, studying, accepting opportunities that allow growth, asking good questions.
Variety - ability to change autonomously, project based work, travel, own business rather than a 9-5 committed role.
Family - Spending time connecting, having experiences where we get to learn, impart knowledge to the kids, prioritising time alone as a couple, investing in meaningful time with parents, siblings, and the in laws.
Advocacy - Always being linked in to something bigger than myself, creating a ripple effect of change, speaking, presenting, fundraising, volunteering, saving lives.
Adventure - the ability to use and build on skills, knowledge and tools.
Finding Meaning
Looking Beyond the Negatives Activity
This type of meaning making gives you the ‘double whammy’ of finding meaning!
Think of a time that didn't go to plan, or that you associate with negatively, this can be as big or small as you like. The key is to choose something that you feel safe to work through. Some events or traumas need to be worked through with the support of a professional.
I would like you to consider the event or challenge and ask yourself whatever of the below questions resonate with you. You are looking to find the growth, benefits or positives from the event or challenge.
What growth did I have as a result?
What were the benefits?
Who did I become as a result of this event or challenge?
What strengths did I call on to move forwards?
What did I learn?
Write it down and then either screenshot your notes to me or email me with what you realised as a result of this activity!
Meaning in Movement
Pay attention to what meaning you find in exercise personally over the next two weeks.
Really try to dig deep to figure out what it is about exercise that is meaningful.
How can you go deeper and find more meaning in movement?
Can you push your boundaries and see what happens as a result?