Finding Your Core Values

Let’s face it: identifying your core values might sound like a self-help cliché, but guess what? It’s actually the secret sauce to living a life that doesn’t make you want to scream into a pillow. Your core values are basically the internal compass that guides your decisions, relationships, and those midnight snack choices (okay, maybe not those). But how do you find them?

Think of it like island living: Your core values are the palm trees, providing shade and structure, no matter how chaotic life gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you discover your core values without feeling like you’re stuck in a self-improvement seminar.

1. Think Back to Your Happy Place: Where’s Your Zen?

Your core values are often hiding in the moments when you feel the happiest, the most alive. Grab a coconut water (we’re staying on theme here) and think back to those moments in your life where everything felt right. Was it when you were helping someone, creating something, or lounging on a beach? These happy moments are usually where your core values are hanging out.

• Pro Tip: Ask yourself, “Why did this make me feel good?” Was it because you valued freedom, connection, creativity, or something else? Start jotting those down. You're on the right track!

2. Who Do You Admire? (Yes, Even That Instagram Influencer)

We all have those people we look up to—maybe it’s someone in your life or a celebrity who’s crushing it in ways you admire. But why do you admire them? Spoiler: It’s not just because they have a beach house in Bali. It’s usually because they embody something that resonates with your core values.

• Pro Tip: Write down a few people you admire and the qualities they embody. Do they radiate kindness? Fearlessness? Independence? These traits often mirror the values that matter most to you.

3. What Makes You See Red?

Believe it or not, your core values are often revealed by what irritates you. The things that push your buttons usually go against your values. So, if laziness or dishonesty makes you want to flip a table, guess what? Hard work and integrity might be some of your key values.

• Pro Tip: Take a moment to reflect on the last time you got annoyed or frustrated. What was the underlying cause? This can reveal the values that are important to you by contrast.

4. Look at Your Decisions: What Are Your Non-Negotiables?

Your past decisions often hold clues to your core values. What are some decisions you’ve made where compromise wasn’t an option? Maybe it’s quitting a job that didn’t align with your personal ethics, or staying in a friendship because loyalty is your thing. These moments reflect the values you refuse to compromise on.

• Pro Tip: List a few major decisions you’ve made in your life and why you made them. The “why” will point you straight to the values guiding your choices.

5. Ask the Big (But Not Scary) Questions

Grab your sunhat, because it’s time for some deep island-style introspection. These are the big questions that help you peel back the layers to find what truly matters to you.

• What do I want my life to stand for?

• What would I fight for, no matter what?

• What legacy do I want to leave behind?

These questions can seem intense, but they’re like the perfect beachside cocktail: a little strong, but refreshing. They force you to dig deep and think about what truly drives you.

6. Narrow It Down: Don’t Overpack the Values Suitcase

Once you’ve brainstormed your values, it’s time to get picky. Just like packing for an island retreat, you don’t need to bring everything—just the essentials. Try narrowing down your list to five core values that really hit home. These should be the values that, when you think about living without them, make you feel like you’re missing out on something important.

• Pro Tip: Write them down, stick them on your fridge, or, better yet, on your vision board (we all know you have one).

7. Live Your Core Values Like a Boss

Now that you’ve identified your core values, it’s time to live them. Think of your core values as your personal island manifesto. They’ll guide your decisions, relationships, and how you deal with life’s ups and downs. Next time you’re faced with a tough decision, refer back to your values and ask, “Does this align with who I am?”

• Pro Tip: When life throws you a curveball, remind yourself that your core values are the foundation. As long as you stay true to them, you’ll stay grounded—just like an island’s palm trees in a storm.

Values Are Your North Star

Your core values aren’t just a list of nice-sounding words—they’re your internal North Star. They help you stay on course, no matter how wild the waves get. So the next time you’re feeling lost, remember that your core values are always there, pointing you in the direction that feels most like home.

Now go ahead and live that island-inspired, stress-free, value-driven life!

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