Hi Everyone, it’s Vlady on the Dóchas blog this week, and I’d like to explore values—the concept and how they can be useful towards behaviour.
Have you ever been in conversations with family, friends, and/or colleagues where the point of discussion has been around values? Perhaps someone mentioned how they are taking more steps to align with their values and/or that they are looking to clarify what it is that they stand for. If values are unfamiliar terrain for you, like it was for myself, it can bring up a variety of feelings such as confusion or even curiosity. So, what is the fuss about and why do they matter?
Purpose of Values
Values can function as a foundation to guide an individual’s daily choices. They can also be different depending on the context. For example, an individual’s work values can differ from those held for themselves on a personal level and/or when connecting with others. Life events and experiences can modify these values too. Overall, they can provide a person with meaning in terms of identifying what is important to them, which can inform not only the activities a person engages in but also in what manner the individual connects with those activities.
The Helpful Quality of Values
One way to think of values is to imagine them as your personal helpers. Each helper can step in to assist you with different aspects of your life.
For example, imagine mindfulness and novelty are two general core values an individual holds for themself. Suppose the individual does a repetitive job that at times brings about boredom.
Imagining novelty as a helper, the individual might:
- Use their lunch break to take a new walking route around their workplace.
- Listen to a new podcast during their coffee break.
- Connect with their supervisor for any potential professional development opportunities and/or the possibility to take on new and manageable tasks at work.
Considering mindfulness as a helper, the individual might:
- Connect with their five senses to bring them back to the present moment whenever their mind wanders about the past and/or future.
- Adopt a non-judgmental attitude by sticking to the facts of circumstances.
- Take micro-mindfulness breaks to observe their surroundings before immersing themself back into work.
These are some examples of values and how they can be implemented in an individual’s life. Each person can connect with values in various and subjective ways. Think about a few values that you have, and how you can incorporate them into your daily life.
If you are looking to gain more clarity on your values and/or how values can help you in your mental health, feel free to reach out to Dóchas at 780-446-0300 or info@dochaspsych.com. Book an in-person (Spruce Grove) or virtual (across Alberta) appointment with one of our therapists here.
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
