Core values aren’t waiting for us in our purpose or calling.
There’s a lot of misconceptions about core values. Often we mistake them for the roles we play or the things we do. But neither our roles nor our actions are valid core values.
What we say and do, the worldly things we value, are only expressions of our underlying beliefs.
It’s easy to adopt a core value like “family” or “animal rights.” There’s tangible evidence we can point to that shows our dedication. But beneath each of these life choices is a driving belief that propels our actions.
This is what a core value is.
A true core value isn’t dependent upon what we do or our perceived identity. It’s not about finding our calling or our mission in life. It’s about discovering the driving force behind all that we do.
We don’t value control. We value the freedom that comes from living uninhibited. We don’t value family. We value connection with loving people. We don’t value animal rights. We value compassion for all living things.
Core values manifest, regardless of the how. Situations and relationships shift and morph. But core values are unwavering. That’s why they’re core values. They transcend.
With so much confusion about core values, we must go back to the beginning. We must strip away all the facades and all the attempts at becoming clear and begin again. Digging down to the bedrock of who we are isn’t easy work. But the method is simple.
Question everything down to its essence. Then rebuild one stone at a time.
Asking, “what do I value?” isn’t enough. We must ask, “why?” again and again until we come to a response that’s universal. A single word (or simple phrase) that stands alone will act as a pillar through all areas of life.
“What do I value?”
“Control over my experiences.”
“Why?”
“No one can force me to do something.”
“Tell me more.”
“It allows me uninhibited self-expression.”
“Why is that important to you?”
“I can be who I am.”
“What will that do for you?”
“I will be free.”
“What’s your belief about freedom?”
“Everyone deserves to feel free.”
Control isn’t the core value. Freedom is.
What we seek in life isn’t a purpose or a calling, but a declaration of meaning that applies to all aspects of life. Deep down we know it’s not about what we do. It’s about how we express the why behind our existence.
?
Wait!
Before you go, I just wanted to say thanks for reading. If you’re passionate about living a meaningful life that you can appreciate right now, you might like some of the other things I’ve written about.
I write here, but I also write over on Medium with publications like Change Becomes You, Illuminations, Be You, and The Writing Cooperative.
Don’t want to chase all my articles down yourself? Subscribe to my bi-weekly newsletter “Food For Thought,” and I’ll hand deliver them to your in-box, along with some other content I don’t share anywhere else.
Thanks so much for your support! ~ Anon
There’s a fork with your name on it! Join us, won’t you?
