How can I identify my values?

Asked by: Dr. Karelle Rolfson  |  Last update: July 3, 2026
Score: 4.9/5 (35 votes)

Finding your core values involves identifying the fundamental beliefs that guide your decisions, behaviors, and priorities. To define them, reflect on peak life experiences, identify what you admire in others, review comprehensive value lists, and narrow them down to a top 3–5 through structured self-reflection.

How do I figure out what my personal values are?

One of the easiest ways to identify values is to ask yourself questions like:

  1. What is important to me?
  2. What would a perfect day look like? What values are represented in this choice?
  3. What do I spend my free time on?
  4. What do I enjoy doing?
  5. What would I do if there were no limitations?

What are my top 5 personal values?

Your top 5 core values are the fundamental principles guiding your decisions, behaviors, and priorities, typically centering around areas like integrity, empathy, growth, authenticity, and freedom. Identifying these 5 provides clarity for life choices, improves relationships, and increases overall satisfaction.

What are the 5 basic values?

For example, underneath the value of respect, you may also value kindness, compassion, love, and humility. Start by asking yourself what each one of these 5 core values means to you. If you were looking at a person who was exhibiting each one in their behaviours, what would you see them doing?

How can I determine my value?

Your values are developed based on the experiences you have in life and what's important to you. Early on, many of us are taught values by our caregivers. We learn more in school and in the workplace, and even more as we grow and develop relationships with others. You'll find what values fit your beliefs over time.

How To Identify Your Core Values: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

23 related questions found

What are the 7 core values of a person?

There are seven core values: Honesty, Boldness, Freedom, Trust, Team spirit, modesty and responsibility. These values are crucial for any interaction and creating a connection with the outside world.

What are 10 examples of values?

Personal values are fundamental beliefs that guide behaviors, decisions, and priorities, providing a framework for living a meaningful life. Examples include integrity, empathy, resilience, authenticity, gratitude, open-mindedness, responsibility, compassion, fairness, and lifelong learning.

What are the 10 basic human values?

10 universal values proposed by Schwartz (1992) are: Benevolence, Universalism, Self-direction, Stimulation, Hedonism, Achievement, Power, Security, Conformity, and Tradition.

What are core values examples?

Core values are foundational beliefs or guiding principles that dictate behavior, decisions, and actions for individuals or organizations. Common examples include integrity, accountability, innovation, respect, and teamwork. These values serve as a moral compass to define what is important and establish a standard for behavior.

What are the six fundamental values?

The International Center for Academic Integrity (ICAI) defines academic integrity as a commitment to six fundamental values: honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility and courage.

What are my values list?

A personal values list acts as a compass for decision-making, personal growth, and fulfillment. Core values typically include concepts like integrity, authenticity, freedom, and compassion. Selecting a top 3-5 list helps prioritize what truly matters, guiding daily actions and reducing long-term dissatisfaction.

What are the top 3 values of yourself?

Your top 3 core values are the fundamental principles that define what truly matters to you and guide your decisions, behaviors, and priorities, usually chosen from a list of life principles like integrity, freedom, or compassion. While unique to you, popular top values often include Integrity, Family/Community, and Growth/Learning.

What are the 5 positive values?

The Search Institute has identified six key elements in the Positive Values category that are crucial in helping young people excel: Caring, Equality and Social Justice, Integrity, Honesty, Responsibility and Restraint.

How do I show I value myself?

Instead of “I'm not good enough,” shift to “I am enough as I am, and I am always growing.” Your inner voice matters—make it a kind one. Know who you are and who you are not – Having self-awareness—understanding your strengths, areas of growth, and what makes you you—allows you to show up authentically.

How do I know my own value?

Knowing your value is an internal, self-driven process based on self-awareness, self-compassion, and recognizing your unique strengths and accomplishments. It involves defining your own worth rather than relying on external validation or accomplishments.

What would be examples of personal values?

30 personal value examples

  • Altruism. Altruism is selflessness for the greater good of society. ...
  • Dependability. If you're dependable, you're a person that others can rely on. ...
  • Integrity. ...
  • Generosity. ...
  • Courage. ...
  • Gratitude. ...
  • Well-being. ...
  • Education.

What are 10 core values?

Core values are fundamental beliefs that guide behavior, decisions, and character, acting as an internal compass for personal or organizational integrity. Key examples include integrity, empathy, and responsibility, which foster authenticity and meaningful action. They are non-negotiable principles that, when followed, provide purpose and fulfillment.

Can you give me an example of how your values impact your work?

Here are some examples: Supporting and energising your work. Where your values are aligned with your work or business you will find that they support and energise your work e.g. If you have a value of trust and you feel trusted by everyone you deal with at work and you trust them.

What are the 7 types of values and examples?

The seven core values include honesty, boldness, freedom, trust, team spirit, modesty, and responsibility. These values are crucial for any interaction and creating a connection with the outside world.

What are 5 basic values in life?

Core values are the fundamental beliefs that guide your behaviors, decisions, and priorities in life. While personalized, five widely recognized core values that foster a meaningful existence include integrity, compassion, growth, responsibility, and gratitude. These principles act as a compass for navigating challenges and defining personal success.

How do you identify your own values?

Identifying your core values involves reflecting on peak experiences, analyzing admired individuals, and reviewing value lists to select 3-5 guiding principles. Common methods include journaling about proud moments, reviewing past tough decisions, and examining your use of time and money. These values represent your long-term compass, distinct from changing goals.

What are the 7 values of life?

The 7 LIFE Guiding Principles

  • Compassion and Generosity. We are considerate of all creatures. ...
  • Optimism and Gratitude. We radiate deep gratitude, and we think powerful thoughts! ...
  • Respect for Self and Others. We believe that we have been wonderfully made by our Creator! ...
  • Integrity. ...
  • Honoring Diversity. ...
  • Persistence. ...
  • Accountability.

What are your values list?

Finding Your Values

  • Achievement. Ambition. Caring. Charity. Collaboration. Creativity. Curiosity. Dependability. ...
  • Fun. Generosity. Growth. Happiness. Health. Honesty. Humor. ...
  • Making a difference. Motivation. Optimism. Open-mindedness. Passion. Perfection. Performance. ...
  • Safety. Security. Self-control. Service. Spirituality. Stability. Success.

What are the 15 values in life?

15 examples of personal values

  • Adaptability. Adaptability is the ability to adjust to changes in a situation. ...
  • Altruism. You can demonstrate altruism when you support a cause that can benefit others. ...
  • Assertiveness. ...
  • Courage. ...
  • Dependability. ...
  • Family. ...
  • Flexibility. ...
  • Generosity.

What are the values in our life?

Values in life are the core principles, beliefs, and standards that guide your behavior, decisions, and actions. Acting as an internal compass, they define what you consider important, helping you live with integrity, purpose, and authenticity while shaping your long-term goals and relationships.