How to write your own set of values

Values are our deeply held convictions of what is 'right'. They drive our emotions and are responsible for the feeling of uneasiness, 'something doesn't feel quite right', we sometimes experience when dealing with people or organisations. If we are required to act in opposition to our values we very soon become stressed. So it is worthwhile taking a few minutes to clarify our thinking. This simple, widely known method, will allow you to identify your strongest values.

Suppose that it is typical of someone to spend time helping at a charity event.

• They would not do so if it were not fun = value A
• But they would if the work did some good = value B
• They would not do so if the charity were not compassionate = value C
• But they would if the profits ensured the survival of those most in need = value D.

Each successive value overrules the previous ones and in this case the top value, so far, is 'to ensure the survival of those most in need'.

Try it yourself.

1. Think of something you like to do regularly and which is typical of you - an interest or work you choose to do.

Write it down

2. What value of yours would just stop you doing it?

Write it down - this is (A)

3. Assuming (A) applies, what higher value would just decide you to do it after all?

This is (B)

4. Assuming that (A) & (B) apply, what higher value would again just stop you doing it?

This is (C)

5. Assuming that (A), (B) & (C) apply, what higher value would again just decide you to do it?

This is (D)

Continue with this see-sawing until you reach your topmost value.

Use this method to work out your core values for the important areas of your life, such as:

• Work
• Leisure
• Citizenship
• Health
• Friendship
• Sports
• Home
• Leadership

Now look across the list and see which values repeat themselves.

These are your core values.

They make up your basic personal 'image'; the set of fundamental attitudes and behaviours which decide how you act - and why.