Beyond the Checklist: How to Truly Live Your Values
We all have them. Those core values we identify on a worksheet or in a moment of deep reflection: words like "freedom," "connection," "creativity," or "peace." We write them down, we think about them, and we might even stick them on a Post-it note. But how often do we move from simply knowing our values to truly living them?
There often exists a gap between the person we want to be and our day-to-day reality. We know we value relaxation, but our calendar is packed with back-to-back meetings. We say we crave creativity, but we haven’t picked up a paintbrush in years. This disconnect isn't a sign of failure; it's an invitation to go deeper. It's a call to move your values from your head to your heart, and into your actions.
From Abstract Idea to Embodied Action
What does it mean to "embody" a value? Sometimes the answer is a grand gesture. Other times, it's a small, spontaneous act that ripples through your entire being.
Imagine one of your core values is "spontaneity." Embodying it might not mean quitting your job to travel the world. It could be as simple as taking a different route home from work, trying a new recipe without a plan, or booking a last-minute weekend getaway. These small actions send a powerful message to yourself: My values matter. I am capable of living them.
This is where the magic happens. When you take an action that is in perfect alignment with a deeply held value, you don’t just feel good; you connect with a more authentic, powerful part of yourself.
Awakening Your Leader Within
In Co-Active coaching, we call this authentic, resourceful, and courageous part of you the "Leader Within." This isn't about having a formal title or managing a team. It's about taking leadership of your own life. Your Leader Within is the part of you that champions your values, makes bold choices, and moves you from a place of "should" to a place of "want to."
Awakening this leader requires listening to its wisdom and then having the courage to act on it. When you make that spontaneous decision or take that small step towards living your values, you are strengthening your connection to this powerful inner resource. You are practicing the art of self-leadership.
So, how can you start embodying your values and connecting with your Leader Within today?
Choose One Value: Don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick one core value that you want to feel more of in your life this week.
Brainstorm Small Actions: What are 3-5 small, simple things you could do to bring that value to life? If your value is "connection," maybe it's sending a thoughtful text to a friend. If it's "peace," perhaps it's taking a 10-minute silent walk without your phone.
Take One Step: Choose one of those actions and do it. Don't overthink it. Just take the leap.
Reflect: After, take a moment to notice how you feel. What shifted? What did you learn? This reflection reinforces the positive impact and builds momentum.
How Coaching Can Help
Moving from knowing your values to living them is a journey. Sometimes, it can be hard to see the path forward or to find the courage to take that first step. As a coach, I partner with you to:
Gain Clarity: We work together to uncover what your core values truly are and what they look like in action for you.
Challenge Limiting Beliefs: A coach can help you identify and move past the "shoulds" and fears that keep you from embodying your values.
Access Your Leader Within: Through powerful questions and exploration, you can connect with your inner wisdom and find the courage to lead your own life.
Create Accountability: A coach provides the support and structure to ensure you follow through on your commitments to yourself.
Moving Forward
The most fulfilling life isn't about checking off a list of accomplishments; it's about the feeling of alignment that comes from living a life true to yourself. What small step will you take today to honor your values?
Ready to awaken your Leader Within? Let’s connect. Schedule a complimentary discovery session today, and let's explore what it would be like to truly live your values.
