Writing down my core values is one of the most important personal-growth activities I’ve ever undertaken.  When I started out I thought, “This will be easy” but I couldn’t have been more wrong.  Boiling down the 7 to 10 values that most matter to me was actually really tough.  It took me a few months to feel like I had articulated the values that best reflect what I believe, who I am, and what I do.

Writing out your core values is a great way to learn more about yourself and sharing your values with others is a great way for them to learn about you.  Additionally, being able to clearly articulate your value set will help you know the things you should say “yes” and “no” to.  It will help you know why you’re attracted to some people and not others.  It will help you choose jobs that you’ll like and know the ones you’ll hate.

Writing out your core values is worth while, but if you make sure to do it right.  If you throw out a bunch of values or just pick the ones that make you smile, you’ll ultimately wind up frustrated with the exercise.  To help, here are a few tips for clearly defining the values that matter to you the most:

• Think about the things you actually do. What you do reflects what you really believe.  Your behavior is the window to your heart. For example, don’t say the Bible is one of your core values if you don’t read it every day.
• Avoid wishful thinking. Don’t pick values that you wish reflected your attitudes and actions.  Also don’t pick the values of someone you want to be like.  Remember, this activity is not about choosing values, it’s about identifying them!
• Think about the things that really make you mad. What upsets you to the point that you’re willing to act?  Bill Hybels calls this your “Holy Discontent”.  The things that most move or upset you reveal your deepest held values.
• Write a slogan with the value. This helps you articulate your values in just a few words and can go a long way in helping others understand your value set.
• Ask other people what they think. The people closest to you will be able to tell you the values they see you living out.  Their input is helpful but only if it is 100% honest.  Don’t ask people who have a tendency to tell you what you want to hear.

I’m sure there are some other things you can do to help clarify your value set, but hopefully this will get you started.

FYI Below are my core values:

• Integrity – What happens behind the curtain matters most.
• Trust – Trust is freely given before it is ever earned.
• Evangelism – Jesus died to reach the world, I must live to reach the world.
• Authenticity – I can never be who I am not.
• Creativity – God is creative. I am made in His image. I am creative.
• Humility – Humility attracts. Arrogance repulses.
• People – People are God’s priority. They should win out over policy.
• Stewardship – My budget reveals my priorities.

P.S. For those who know me well and are wondering why it didn’t make my list, “Star Wars” is not a value.  ;-)