Values: The Pillars of Our Growth and Authenticity

When was the last time you stopped to reflect on your values? Or have you ever done so? These may not be common questions you ask yourself, but the truth is that values play a fundamental role in the way we live, relate to each other and make decisions. They are the roots of our essence, the foundations that support who we are. They guide our choices, shape our actions and help us live in a way that is consistent with who we are. Despite their importance, few people invest time in identifying and understanding them in depth. Let’s explore how values are the pillars of human growth and how you can delve into your own self-knowledge, based on literature and practical tools.

What are Values?

Values are fundamental principles or beliefs that guide our choices and actions. They represent what truly matters to us—what we consider essential to feeling fulfilled and in alignment with who we are. They act as compasses, helping us navigate life’s decisions and challenges. By aligning our actions with our values, we experience a sense of fulfillment and authenticity.

For example, values such as honesty, respect, freedom, family, or personal growth can shape how we deal with situations in life and how we relate to others. And how do we know that they matter? Imagine someone who deeply values freedom; they might feel fulfilled when working independently, but stifled when working a rigid job. On the other hand, someone whose main value is family might prioritize spending time with loved ones over ambitious professional goals. These are just two examples of how you can identify and validate your values in your daily life.

Why is identifying Values Transformative?

When we dedicate ourselves to identifying our values, we are connecting with our inner truth and this awareness offers a series of benefits:

1. Clarity in what fills and what does not fill

   Values act as internal compasses. They show us what brings us satisfaction and purpose, helping us say “yes” to what enriches us and “no” to what drains us.

   
   

2. Simplified Decision Making

   In times of doubt or uncertainty, values provide a clear path. If freedom is a core value for you, for example, choosing between an opportunity that limits your autonomy and one that offers flexibility becomes much simpler.

   
   

3. Setting Healthy Boundaries

   By understanding your values, you can establish clear boundaries, both in your personal life and in your relationships with others. You can protect what is important to you and avoid situations or behaviors that conflict with what you believe in.

Values Shape Personality. How?

Values are the pillars that support the construction of identity. When we act in accordance with them, we feel an internal coherence, an alignment between what we think, feel and do. This reinforces authenticity and self-confidence. On the other hand, when we ignore or violate our values, we can experience discomfort, guilt or frustration. It is as if we are moving away from who we really are. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate them and live in harmony with them.

Techniques for Identifying Values

While values are deeply personal, identifying them can require reflection and practical tools. Here are three approaches that can help you:

1. Reflection Exercise

Take stock of your experiences:

• What moments in your life have brought you the greatest happiness or fulfillment?

• In what situations did you feel most uncomfortable or out of alignment?

• What do you admire most about yourself and the people around you?

Make a list of words that represent these feelings, such as freedom, honesty, growth, respect, or compassion.

2. Tools and Questionnaires

Some renowned authors offer practical approaches to help explore values:

• Brené Brown , in "The Courage to Be Imperfect" , presents a guide to identifying the two main values that guide our lives. According to her, focusing on a few key values helps maintain focus and clarity.

• Simon Sinek , in "Start with Why" , proposes a deep reflection on internal motivations, helping to connect personal values with purpose.

• Steven Covey , author of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" , highlights how values are essential for building a proactive and conscious life.

3. Hierarchy of Values Technique

Make an initial list of 10 to 15 important values, then narrow the list down to the five most relevant.

Ask yourself:

• Which of these values could I not compromise in any way?

• If I had to choose just one, which one would be essential to my happiness?

How Do Values Impact Practical Life?

Knowing your values is just the first step. Real transformation happens when you incorporate them into your daily life. Here are some ways to do that:

• Use your values as filters to set goals.

• Review your routines and commitments, and eliminate what is not aligned.

• Reinforce your boundaries by saying "no" to activities or relationships that conflict with your principles.

These are just some of the ways to put into action the importance of your values and what is most important to you in your life. With these small actions you will reach a desired state that makes you move forward and not doubt. Here are 4 essential points:

1. Clarity and Purpose

   When we know our values, we have more clarity about what brings us joy and what doesn’t align with us, which helps us build a life that reflects our priorities and purpose.

   
   

2. Decision Simplification

   Values serve as criteria for informed choices. Instead of getting lost in dilemmas, we can ask ourselves, “Is this decision aligned with my values?” This reduces indecision and increases confidence in our choices.

3. Setting Limits

   Understanding our values helps us define clear boundaries, so that we can preserve our time, energy and emotions, and avoid relationships or commitments that consume us and do not bring added value.

   
   

4. Strengthening Personality

   When we live in alignment with our values, we cultivate authenticity and solid self-esteem, and this is reflected in all areas of life — personal, professional and social.

Conclusion: A Path to a Fulfilling Life

Values are more than just words or concepts; they are the foundation of our growth as human beings. They help us live more simply, make decisions with confidence, and build genuine and meaningful relationships. When we live in alignment with our values, life becomes lighter, more coherent, and, above all, more authentic. After all, it is values that guide us to be the best version of ourselves.

So, how about taking a moment to identify yours? You’ll be surprised to discover the transformative power that this reflection can bring to your life.

Now it's your turn!

What values are most important to you? Leave a comment and share your experience of building a life aligned with your values.