What are Core Values?

In our quest for self-discovery and self-awareness, we often come across the term "core values." However, many people confuse core values with principles, ethics, or moral values. The truth is, rediscovering your core values may not be as obvious as it seems. Let's explore why and how you can embark on this transformative journey.

Uncovering the Hidden Truth

It's not uncommon to draw a blank when asked about your core values. You might assume that since they are "core," you should already know them. But the reality is quite different. While we are born with inherent core values, external influences such as upbringing, experiences, societal expectations, and personal aspirations shape our beliefs and redefine our understanding of our core values.

As time goes by, we get influenced by parents, caregivers, circumstances, opinions of others, our experiences, society's opinions and expectations, and even our own expectations of who we "want" to be. All these factors form our beliefs, which in turn influence our idea of what our core values are.

I, too, discovered my core values much later in life

Unsurprisingly, this lack of self-awareness led to a career and relationships that didn't align with my true identity. Making important life decisions without a clear understanding of who I truly was resulted in living an inauthentic life. Although I recognized some core values like family, gratitude, and caregiving, others like non-judgment, justice, teaching, authenticity, and leadership remained buried and had no role in my decision-making process. Once I embraced these core values, it was like a switch flipped, lifting a heavy burden and allowing me to become my authentic self.

Core Values is not just another self-development buzz word

Core values have gained significant attention, with a 50% surge in global Google searches since 2021. This increase coincided with the pandemic, which prompted people to spend more time alone and contemplate life's bigger questions. Moreover, there has been a remarkable rise in self-development, as individuals like Warren Buffet emphasize the importance of investing in oneself. with statements like "the best investment you can make is the investment in yourself".

My question to you is - do you truly know what your core values are? Without the noise

Core values serve as guiding principles that define your true essence. They act as your personal compass, pointing you in the right direction and aiding decision-making aligned with your deepest emotions. Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. Identify the values that resonate deep within your heart, soul, and emotions. These values will become the guiding stars leading you to a purposeful and fulfilling life.

You have the power to create a meaningful life aligned with your core values. Once you discover your core values, embrace and honor them. Let them be the driving force behind your actions and decisions in various aspects of life, such as career, business, relationships, and environment. When these elements align with your true self, you will experience a sense of fulfillment and genuine happiness. Feeling lost or that something is missing often arises when these aspects don't align with your core values.

Are you ready to discover YOUR core values?

Discovering your core values is a unique and personal journey. It requires introspection, self-exploration, self-awareness, and seeking guidance from mentors and those around you. Embrace this process, knowing that you are not alone in your quest for self-discovery.

I included a link to a document below. It will guide you through the process and help you uncover those values that are important to you. But this is a personal journey and there are no right or wrong answers. What is really truly important is whatever values you come up with, is truly yours. It's not who you might want to be - it is who you truly are. It's not who other people want you to be or expect you to be in the roles that you fulfill, or society's expectations, or even perhaps your own expectations.

What about you Business's Core Values?

If you're a business owner, it's essential to establish core values for your company. Are your decision-making processes aligned with these values? Do they guide your collaborations and employment choices? As the face of my own business, I ensure its values align with my personal values, which include an extraordinary family, immense gratitude, teaching, leadership, caregiving, non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. These values have the power to transform lives, bringing inner peace, happiness, and joy.

Not knowing what your core values are is literally like steering this ship called life without a steering wheel

You're merely at the mercy of the waves, letting life happen to you instead of taking control and navigating with intention, taking full steer of YOUR ship. 

Take a moment and envision what your life will be like - with contentment, peace, confidence, less stress and anxiety. Remember change starts with you.  By discovering and living in alignment with your core values you have the power to create a ripple effect of positive transformation in your life and also in the lives of others around you. This is one of the biggest gifts you can give your children - is to teach them and help them to discover their core values. By discovering your core values and aligning your world to your core values. Embrace this opportunity and embark on this incredible journey of self-discovery.

Start today and if need help, reach out.

Step into your true potential and watch as your life transforms into something extraordinary!

Download the Core values workbook here