At The Humphreys Group, we talk a lot about values, and encourage our clients and community members to live their values each and every day. But what does that really mean? What exactly are core values, and how does one “live them”?
At their most basic, core values can be defined as principles, qualities or energies that make you feel fulfilled. There is no one specific set of values that each individual should have; your guiding values are as unique to you as your favorite band or your favorite smoothie recipe.
Although we may not all share the same set of values, one thing we do have in common is that when we live our values, we are much more likely to feel aligned, fulfilled and at peace with ourselves. That’s why it’s extremely important to understand what your core values are, and orient your daily life around them.
Discovering your values means you’ll need to get introspective and do a little bit of soul-searching. Start by grabbing a pen and paper and taking the time to contemplate a few questions.
- Have you ever experienced a moment so fulfilling that you felt more like you than you ever had before? What have been some of those moments? Maybe one was when you found out you were pregnant. Perhaps one was the day you graduated from law school. Or maybe, one was a random Tuesday afternoon when you went out to lunch with a friend and had an amazing conversation. Try not to choose moments based on society’s narrative, but rather consider any occasions where you felt like the most authentic version of yourself.
- Now that you have a few of these ultra-fulfilling moments jotted down, reflect on why these experiences were so fulfilling, rich and meaningful for you. Look at these moment through a value based lens. If one of your peak moments was taking a vacation with your significant other, maybe that signifies that a core value for you is adventure, or maybe partnership. If you cherish the memory of a conversation with a loved one, maybe you value communication and connectivity.
- Once you have begun to think deeply about what you value, try to compile a list of at least 3 core values that you’d like to incorporate more into your day-to-day life, and brainstorm ways you can express these values through your daily actions. For example, if your values are service, leadership, and creativity, maybe you volunteer for a leadership position at your local community center. Perhaps you organize a team wine and paint night at work. Or maybe you organize a compost program in your apartment building.
- After you’ve come up with a list of values and brainstormed ways to incorporate them into your daily life, be sure to continue to check in with yourself. Keep a journal and assess your progress. Track how these subtle but actionable shifts are making you feel.
At The Humphreys Group, we know that living your values feels fulfilling because we practice living our values each day. We value our community, our clients, and the environment, and by becoming a B Corp, we have shown our public that we’re not just talking the talk — we’re walking the walk.
If you’re interested in learning more about the B Corp certification and how it impacts The Humphreys Group, get in touch today!
