Values are deeply held beliefs that guide our behaviors and decisions. They reside deeply within the subconscious and are tightly integrated into the fabric of everyday living. We make decisions and choose behaviors, friends, employment, and entertainment based, in large part, on our values.
Family Values
We assimilate a beginning value-set during childhood from parents, teachers, coaches, and influential others. In later years, as a result of critical thinking and life experiences, we may discard some values and add others. But many values that subconsciously operate as a basis for choices, decisions, and behaviors are the core values assimilated during our early years.
Why Are Values Important to Personal Development?
We tend to live our lives in accordance with our values. When we face a decision and choose A instead of B, it's often because A feels right to us. We might use words such as, "it's the right thing to do," or "that's the right way."
We tend to think of our values as absolute and universal, what feels right to us must be right for everyone, but is it? Intellectually, we know the answer is no. We easily use the phrase "different strokes for different folks" as we observe a behavior that amuses, but doesn't threaten us.
Still, there are times when we bristle at someone's behavior, becoming outraged and angry, especially when a value we hold is challenged or violated. Recall a heated argument between friends or family members. A value conflict was surely the cause. In fact, any spontaneous and strong reaction to a situation can more than likely be traced to a values conflict.
The following values-oriented articles will help you understand the importance of values, identify and clarify your own personal values, and provide information to help you consciously focus on a values-based life:
Base Your Life on a Personal Code of Values
A life based on a personal code of values brings meaning, purpose, and direction to living. Follow the process in this article to clarify your values and lead a values-aligned life.
What Are Values & How Do You Find Them?
Live by your personal code of values to get the most out of life. Life is fulfilling and free of stress when we live in accordance to our own personal values.
Use Values, Passions, and Strengths to Bring Balance to Your Life
Five important actions you can take to get balance and control back in your values-based life.
When We Use our Special Talents and Abilities Our Lives Are Happier
For greater life satisfaction, identify your unique strengths and talents and strive to utilize them each day.
Your Career Self Assessment Should Include a Core Strength Analysis
Advance your career by recognizing your unique core strengths and capitalizing on them.
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Jerry Lopper - IPPA member, business and engineering degrees. Jerry's passion for personal development shows in 5 books, hundreds of articles & ...
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