What we will cover:

• The difference between goals and values.
• Why values are essential for personal growth.
• Examples of values to help guide reflection.

Understanding the difference between goals and values‍

Goals and values are often mentioned together but serve very different purposes. Goals are specific actions you can take and see progress on. They are specific tasks or achievements you can tick off a list. Values, on the other hand, are about the person you want to be and the life you want to live. They are ongoing principles that guide your actions and decisions but aren’t something you can achieve or "complete."

For example, consider the goal of volunteering at a charity event this weekend. This goal is a one-time action you can accomplish and mark as "done." However, the underlying value might be something deeper, like wanting to show compassion or contribute to your community. This value doesn’t end with the charity event; it continues to guide how you spend your time, treat others, and give back to your community.

Values are the foundation of what truly matters to us, shaping our behaviour in various situations and giving our actions deeper meaning.

Why are values important?‍

Values act as a compass, pointing us toward what is truly important in life. They help us make decisions that align with our priorities and give us a sense of purpose. However, while values provide direction, they don’t move us forward by themselves. Progress requires action.

Imagine a lighthouse guiding a ship in the dark. Your values are like the lighthouse; they provide direction and show you the way. However, the boat won’t reach the shore unless the captain takes action, steering through the waves and challenges.

Living by your values is similar. They guide you toward what matters most, but reaching your destination requires consistent effort and deliberate choices, even when the waters are rough. By staying focused and navigating one step at a time, you can move closer to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Examples of values‍

Here are some common values to help you start reflecting on your own:

• Kindness and empathy: Treating others with compassion and respect.
• Integrity: Acting in line with your principles, even when it’s difficult.
• Curiosity: Being open to learning and exploring new ideas.
• Courage: Facing fears and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
• Connection: Building meaningful relationships with others.

These examples are just a starting point; your values are unique to you and should reflect what you care about most deeply.

Summary

Understanding the difference between goals and values is crucial for personal growth. Goals are specific actions that help you achieve things, while values represent deeper principles and the ‘why’ behind your decisions and actions. In Identifying Your Values: In Practice, we’ll explore a reflective exercise to help you identify your core values and assess how aligned you are with them.