Part2. How to not care about other people's opinions? Find out what YOUR core values are.

As promised in Part1 of "How to not care about other people's opinions?", today's article is about helping you find those core values that are personal to you and will help you to keep track on the life that you want to live and not let other people's opinions sway you or make your doubts grow bigger.

Image from Pexels by Ave Calvar Martinez

What are core values?

They are the essence of our authentic selves and influence our thoughts, actions, and decisions. Like an invisible compass, core values guide us through life's challenges and opportunities, helping us navigate toward what truly matters.

While many external factors such as societal norms, cultural influences, and familial expectations may impact our lives, core values come from within. When we live in alignment with them, we experience greater satisfaction and a profound sense of purpose.

The importance of identifying your core values

Imagine building a magnificent house without a solid foundation – it may appear impressive, but it will eventually crumble under the weight of time. Similarly, a life devoid of clearly defined core values can lead to confusion, dissatisfaction, and a lack of direction.

Identifying your core values is crucial for several reasons:

1. Clarity and focus: When you understand what truly matters to you, it becomes easier to set meaningful goals and make decisions that align with your vision.

2. Personal empowerment: Knowing your core values empowers you to stand firm in your beliefs, regardless of external influences or societal pressures.

3. Enhanced relationships: Understanding your values helps you form deeper connections with like-minded individuals, fostering more meaningful and authentic relationships.

4. Resilience and growth: When faced with challenges, your core values provide a source of strength and motivation to persevere and grow.

The exercise: uncovering your core values

This exercise is one of the exercise that stuck with me since I have done my coaching training, I think it is really powerful and worth taking the time to do it. I have done it with all the people that I have worked with as a coach and it is always a good starting point to then make change for a more satisfying life.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of values, there are many that you can find on google or you can add some to this list, but it is a good foundation if you need a bit of structure.

1. Reflection: Find a quiet space where you can reflect without distractions. Take deep breaths to center yourself and calm your mind. Consider significant moments or experiences in your life that left a lasting impact. What values were present in those instances? Make a list of any that come to mind.

2. Prioritisation: Review the list you created and prioritise your values based on their importance to you. Ask yourself, "Which values resonate most deeply with my authentic self?" It might be challenging to narrow down, but try to focus on the ones that truly define who you are. Start by selecting 10 values, then reflect and narrow down to 5, and finally 3.

3. Defining each value: Take a few moments to define each value you've identified. What does it mean to you? How does it manifest in your daily life and decision-making?

4. Aligning with your life: Contemplate how well your current life aligns with these core values. Are there areas where you could live more authentically in accordance with your values?

5. Embracing your core values: Now that you have a clear understanding of your core values, embrace them wholeheartedly. Let them guide your choices and actions, and notice the positive impact they have on your well-being and satisfaction.

Once you have your values, put them up somewhere where you will see them often, written on post notes on your fridge, in your journal, wherever they will be obvious as a reminder.

Anytime you start to get discouraged towards your goals, things you are working on or changing in your life, look at them and remind yourself what they mean to you.

Anytime you let comparison get to your head remind yourself of your core values.

Your values, combined with faith wisdom and action are the secret ingredients to live fulfilling experiences.

Remember, this is an ongoing process, and as you evolve, your core values may evolve too. Embrace the discovery of your authentic self and let your core values be the lighthouse that leads you to living a fulfilled life.