Discovering Your Core Values And Beliefs: A Guide

Do you ever feel like you’re not quite sure what you believe in or what’s most important to you? It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day hustle and forget to take a step back and reflect on what truly matters. This guide will help you discover your core values and beliefs, so you can live a more fulfilling and intentional life.

What Are Core Values and Beliefs?

Before we dive into the process of discovering your core values and beliefs, let’s define what we mean by these terms. Core values are the guiding principles that dictate your behavior and decision-making. They are the things that matter most to you and that you prioritize above all else. Core beliefs, on the other hand, are the deeply held convictions that shape your worldview and perspective on life. They are the lenses through which you view the world and interpret events.

Why Are Core Values and Beliefs Important?

Knowing your core values and beliefs is crucial because they inform every aspect of your life. They help you make decisions that align with your true self and give you a sense of purpose and direction. When you’re living in alignment with your core values and beliefs, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled and satisfied with your life.

How to Discover Your Core Values and Beliefs

1. Reflect on Your Past Experiences

Think about a time in your life when you felt truly happy and fulfilled. What were you doing? What values or beliefs were you living out in that moment? Reflecting on past experiences can help you identify the things that are most important to you.

2. Identify Your Non-Negotiables

What are the things that you absolutely cannot compromise on? These might be related to your relationships, career, or personal values. Identifying your non-negotiables can help you pinpoint your core values.

3. Consider What Makes You Angry or Upset

What are the things that make you really angry or upset? This can be a clue to your core beliefs. For example, if you get upset when you see injustices in the world, your core belief might be that everyone deserves equal treatment.

4. Take a Values Assessment

There are many online assessments that can help you identify your core values. These assessments typically ask you to rank or rate different values, such as honesty, compassion, or creativity. While these assessments shouldn’t be the only tool you use to discover your core values, they can be a helpful starting point.

5. Write a Personal Mission Statement

A personal mission statement is a declaration of your core values and beliefs, as well as your purpose and goals in life. Writing a personal mission statement can help you clarify your values and give you a roadmap for how to live in alignment with them.

FAQs

What if I’m not sure what my core values and beliefs are?

That’s okay! It can take time and reflection to discover your core values and beliefs. Start by paying attention to the things that bring you joy and fulfillment, as well as the things that make you angry or upset. You can also try taking a values assessment or writing a personal mission statement to help clarify your values.

Can my core values and beliefs change over time?

Absolutely! Your core values and beliefs may shift as you grow and have new experiences. That’s why it’s important to regularly reflect on your values and make sure they are still aligned with your true self.

How can I live in alignment with my core values and beliefs?

Once you’ve identified your core values and beliefs, try to make decisions and take actions that align with them. For example, if one of your core values is environmentalism, you might choose to recycle, use public transportation, or support eco-friendly businesses. Living in alignment with your core values can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment to your life.

Institutions: Harvard University, University of California Berkeley