Create Your Personal Values

Values are the bedrock of who we are. They’re the non-negotiables—the principles we turn to when making tough decisions and the compass that guides us through life’s highs and lows. Defining your personal values isn’t just an exercise in self-awareness; it’s an act of empowerment. When you’re clear on what matters most, every choice, goal, and interaction is infused with purpose and authenticity.

This page will guide you through discovering your core values and provide a comprehensive list of suggestions to spark ideas. Remember, there’s no right or wrong here. Values are deeply personal, and they evolve over time. Explore, reflect, and choose what speaks to your heart.

Step 1: Reflect on Key Moments in Your Life

To begin, think back to moments when you felt truly fulfilled. What were you doing? Who were you with? Reflecting on these moments can reveal values that matter deeply to you. Conversely, consider situations where you felt conflicted or uncomfortable. These experiences often highlight values that were compromised or missing, which can help clarify what’s most important to you.

Step 2: Identify Common Themes and Prioritize

Look for patterns and themes that emerge as you reflect. Do you see recurring values like honesty, adventure, or creativity? Once you’ve identified potential values, try to prioritize. Aim for a list of five to ten core values. These should be the ones that resonate most strongly and feel essential to your sense of self.

Step 3: Use Our Comprehensive List of Values

Here’s an extensive list of values to get you started. Use it as inspiration to identify what truly speaks to you. Feel free to write down, circle, or underline the words that resonate the most.

1. Integrity & Authenticity

These values focus on truth, honesty, and staying true to yourself and others.

Honesty – Speaking truthfully and openly.
Transparency – Being open and clear in communication.
Authenticity – Being true to yourself without facade.
Responsibility – Owning your actions and their impact.
Accountability – Taking responsibility and holding yourself to high standards.
Trustworthiness – Being reliable and earning trust from others.

2. Growth & Achievement

If you value continuous learning and pushing beyond limits, these values may resonate.

Personal Development – A commitment to self-improvement and learning.
Learning – Seeking knowledge and understanding.
Innovation – Pioneering new ways of thinking or creating.
Success – Achieving desired results and striving for excellence.
Excellence – Setting high standards and aiming to reach them.
Mastery – Perfecting a skill or craft.
Continuous Improvement – Consistently seeking growth and enhancement.

3. Empowerment & Resilience

For those who value inner strength and the ability to overcome challenges.

Courage – Facing fears and stepping outside comfort zones.
Strength – Cultivating inner power and resilience.
Confidence – Believing in yourself and your capabilities.
Empowerment – Inspiring and uplifting yourself and others.
Self-Reliance – Relying on your own abilities.
Resilience – Bouncing back from setbacks.
Determination – Staying committed to your path, regardless of obstacles.

4. Connection & Relationships

If meaningful relationships are vital to you, these values may reflect your ideals.

Compassion – Showing empathy and kindness to others.
Empathy – Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
Family – Prioritizing family connections and support.
Community – Contributing to and being part of a supportive group.
Loyalty – Being steadfast and faithful to others.
Kindness – Showing consideration and warmth.
Respect – Valuing the worth of others and their perspectives.

5. Health & Wellness

These values reflect a commitment to physical and mental well-being.

Balance – Striving for a harmonious life in all areas.
Vitality – Embracing energy, health, and enthusiasm for life.
Discipline – Staying committed to habits and routines that support wellness.
Fitness – Valuing physical health and activity.
Mental Clarity – Prioritizing a clear, focused mind.
Well-Being – Prioritizing a healthy, joyful life.
Mindfulness – Staying present and aware in daily activities.

6. Adventure & Fun

These values represent a zest for life, new experiences, and excitement.

Curiosity – Being eager to learn and explore.
Passion – Following what ignites your enthusiasm.
Freedom – Valuing autonomy and choice.
Exploration – Seeking out new places, experiences, and knowledge.
Adventure – Embracing excitement, unpredictability, and new horizons.
Playfulness – Enjoying life with a sense of humor and fun.
Spontaneity – Embracing the unplanned and the unexpected.

7. Purpose & Contribution

These values center on making a difference and creating impact.

Service – Helping others and adding value to their lives.
Impact – Making a positive difference in the world.
Contribution – Giving back to society or a cause.
Purpose – Having a clear direction and reason for actions.
Legacy – Building something that endures beyond your lifetime.
Leadership – Inspiring and guiding others.
Generosity – Sharing resources, time, and support.

8. Spirituality & Faith

These values reflect a belief in something greater and a connection to the divine.

Faith – Trusting in a higher power or deeper meaning.
Spirituality – Seeking a connection to the divine or transcendent.
Peace – Cultivating inner calm and harmony.
Gratitude – Appreciating what life has given you.
Reverence – Valuing the sacredness of life.
Sacredness – Recognizing the holy in everyday moments.
Higher Purpose – Pursuing a calling beyond self-interest.

9. Creativity & Innovation

These values emphasize originality and the freedom to express unique ideas.

Creativity – Generating new ideas, art, or solutions.
Inspiration – Finding and spreading motivation.
Originality – Staying true to unique thoughts and ideas.
Expression – Sharing thoughts, feelings, or art with others.
Imagination – Embracing the limitless power of ideas.
Vision – Envisioning new possibilities for yourself and others.
Artistry – Using skills to create beauty or meaningful work.

10. Self-Worth & Confidence

These values underscore the importance of self-acceptance and inner strength.

Self-Love – Embracing and appreciating yourself.
Dignity – Carrying yourself with honor and respect.
Confidence – Having faith in your worth and abilities.
Independence – Making choices aligned with your desires.
Respect – Recognizing your inherent worth.
Acceptance – Accepting yourself as you are.
Self-Belief – Trusting in your capabilities and potential.

11. Responsibility & Discipline

If you value dependability and focus, these might align with your priorities.

Accountability – Holding yourself responsible for actions.
Responsibility – Valuing duty and follow-through.
Discipline – Maintaining focus and commitment.
Commitment – Being dedicated to your goals.
Focus – Staying aligned with your vision.
Reliability – Being dependable and consistent.
Order – Bringing structure to your life.

Step 4: Embrace and Integrate Your Values

Once you’ve identified your core values, take time to consider how they show up in your life. Reflect on these values as you set goals, make decisions, and navigate challenges. They can serve as reminders of what truly matters, helping you live more intentionally and authentically.

These values are your foundation, supporting you in the pursuit of a life that resonates with purpose, fulfillment, and integrity. Use them as a guidepost on your journey.