Values Journal

For those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their values, this 7-day exercise will prepare you to lay a foundation for what matters most when you consider setting your admirable aspirations. Over the course of this week, you'll delve into a reflective journaling exercise designed to unveil your core values. These values will guide you through defining your purpose areas, setting actionable goals, and structuring your quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily plans. As you engage in this exploration, trust that by the week's end, you'll have the clarity to kickstart a year-long journey of intentional growth and fulfilment

Grab a diary, create some time, and dive in. Some may need only a few minutes to reflect on each day’s thoughts, while others may take longer to explore their values more deeply. Remember, this is your journey, and there's no rush. If you have any questions along the way or could use some further guidance, feel free to reach out.

Day 1: Reflect on Meaningful Moments

Take a moment to recall the times in your life when you felt the happiest, most fulfilled, or deeply content. Write down these moments and the aspects that made them special. These instances can offer insights into what truly matters to you.

Day 2: Explore What Inspires You

Think about the people, experiences, or stories that have inspired you. What qualities or values do these sources of inspiration embody? Note down these qualities as they might align with your own core values.

Day 3: Identify Personal Strengths

Reflect on your own strengths and qualities that you admire about yourself. These strengths often reflect values that resonate with you. Write down the strengths you possess and what they signify to you.

Day 4: Consider Role Models

Choose a role model or someone you look up to. What traits or actions of theirs do you admire the most? How do these traits reflect your values or aspirations? Record your thoughts on these connections.

Day 5: Reflect on Challenging Times

Think about difficult situations you've faced and what values guided you through those times. Consider how you responded and why. These challenges can reveal values that you hold dear.

Day 6: Visualise Your Ideal Future

Imagine your ideal life several years from now. Picture every aspect, from personal to professional. What does it look like? What values are reflected in this vision? Write a detailed description.

Day 7: Review and Summarise

Look back at the entries from the past week. Highlight recurring themes, values, or qualities that have emerged. These repeated elements are likely to indicate your core values.

Tips:

  • There’s no limit on how many core values you can have, but my rule of thumb is to aim for somewhere between 4 and 8.

  • You can choose a core value that may not have a defined pathway of access right now. This exercise is about intent and what you want in life.

  • Bookmark or favourite this page so you can come back to the exercise at any time.

  • The link to return to the Advanced Goal Setting page is here.