By: Kaleigh Nobbe, Clinical Intern

Many agree that there is usually a discussion about expanding self-awareness when involved in counseling or therapy. I think about values like the applications on our cell phones. Even if we aren’t actively using an app, they are often still running in the background, counting our steps, keeping track of our calendar, updating Facebook to see immediate changes when we log back in. Our values operate in a similar way: we may not be actively thinking about them, but they impact our lives and influence the way we navigate the world around us. 

Personal values are ideas and beliefs that individuals have about themselves and the world around them. Our values may be connected to our personal background, cultural contexts, or social identities. We utilize our personal values to make judgements, choices, about who we form relationships with, how we spend our time, and how we use our money and other resources. Have you ever taken the time to critically examine your values? By raising our self-awareness about our own personal values, we can understand better how they may operate in the background of our daily functions.

 

Some examples of personal values are…

  • Achievement
  • Adventure
  • Courage
  • Creativity
  • Dependability
  • Determination
  • Friendship
  • Health

By understanding personal values and reflecting on the values you hold, it can illuminate some inconsistencies in life goals. On the other hand, acknowledging the values most important to you can also help you embrace who you are and live more authentically by clarifying what you want in life. How do your values present themselves in your current and future goals in counseling?

Owens & Associates can help better understand your values and their roles in reaching your goals. We offer services to individuals, couples, families and groups. Schedule a free 15-minute phone or video consultation to discuss how one of our clinicians or groups might help meet your needs.

847.854.4333