VALUES AFFECT OUR WELL-BEING
Deciding what matters most
Articulating personal values is the fundamental key towards developing whatever we would like our life to become. Personal values are a significant part of what is central to our wellbeing. If we can define our values and then live according to them, we will feel happier and more fulfilled.
Values really should determine our priorities. When the things that we do and the way we behave match our values, life is good, we feel satisfied and content. However, with the hectic pace, complexities, competing priorities and demands of the modern world, we are finding that we are more and more only managing to survive. Thus, choosing the path of least resistance, which can be devoid of any values, is the easiest. This can lead to a real source of unhappiness. That sick feeling that comes over us, when we know things are not genuine and sincere – we all have experienced this and it’s not a nice feeling.
Therefore, making a conscious effort to clearly identify and understand our values is so important. When we are aware of them, acknowledge and respect them, then we can align our decisions with them – life is good and much happier.
What are your values? Can you clearly articulate your most important values?
The following is a list of common personal values to help you get started. Try to choose the top ten initially and then decide within that group, the top three that are most important to you. Really question yourself deeply. Think about what is the most significant to you in this modern life.
• accountability, achievement, balance, calmness, cheerfulness
• commitment, courage, courtesy, determination, empathy, enthusiasm
• excellence, faith, family, financial security, fitness, freedom
• generosity, gratitude, happiness, hard work, health, honesty, integrity
• joy, love, openness, punctuality, reliability, respect, responsibility
• self-control self-respect, service, stability
• teamwork, thoughtfulness, trust, understanding.
PERSONAL VALUES REALLY DETERMINE OUR PRIORITIES.
Identifying, understanding and recognising your values can be a challenging but a very empowering exercise. It is who you are. By using them as a guide, you will continually make the best choice in any situation.
The most important benefit from articulating our personal values is, that if we can live our lives according to those values, we will feel more fulfilled and experience a much greater sense of wellbeing.
Megan McGrath is passionate about supporting and empowering women towards achieving healthy, balanced and fulfilling lives. She helps create sustainable change for positive lasting results and is proud to have helped countless people thrive and flourish on their wellness journey. Megan has a Health Science degree, is a professional accredited Wellness Coach, a certified Fitness Trainer and Founder of Chasing Sunrise – a Health and Wellness Consultancy.