22 May 10 Core Values to Guide Behaviour
When it comes to happiness, many factors are considered as important.
Many people, for example, think about those things that bring joy and pleasure.
And happiness does, in part, come from joy and pleasure and what might even be called hedonism.
But REAL happiness, lasting happiness, enduring and authentic happiness is more than this; and it’s guided by something deeper and more substantial which we often call values …
via Psychology Today by Jessica Koehler
KEY POINTS
- Core values shape our attitudes, actions, and decisions, greatly impacting our personal growth.
- Living in alignment with one’s values, referred to as value-congruence, is linked to psychological well-being.
- Core values are not fixed but dynamic, evolving through experiences, relationships, and reflective practices.
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Core values serve as guiding principles that shape our attitudes, actions, and decisions. According to psychological research, values are fundamental beliefs that guide our choices and behaviors. They are the foundational principles we hold dear, affecting how we perceive and interact with the world. They are deeply ingrained, often subconscious, and integral to our identity. They are the yardstick by which we judge ourselves and others, influencing our emotions, attitudes, and actions. By exploring these values, we can understand their importance in fostering personal growth, healthy relationships, and a flourishing society.
Values are not fixed traits—they are dynamic and can be shaped and reshaped over time through our experiences, relationships, and reflections. Research suggests that intentional practices cultivate values, including self-reflection, education, and engagement with diverse perspectives.
Moreover, research has found a strong correlation between living in accordance with one’s values and psychological well-being. This alignment, often called value congruence, is associated with greater life satisfaction, self-esteem, and positive affect. It reduces internal conflicts and promotes authenticity, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
10 Core Values to Guide Behavior
These ten core values can serve as a compass, guiding us in a direction that improves our well-being and contributes positively to the world around us:
- Integrity: Integrity, the adherence to moral and ethical principles, lies at the foundation of human behavior. Cultivating integrity begins with self-awareness. Reflect on personal beliefs and values, and strive to align actions with them. Consciously choose honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. Practice consistency between words and actions, and hold oneself accountable personally and professionally.
- Empathy: Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, plays a crucial role in building meaningful connections and fostering compassion. To cultivate empathy, practice active listening, give full attention to the person speaking, and try to understand their perspective without judgment. Engage in activities that expose you to different viewpoints and experiences, such as reading diverse literature or volunteering in community services…
… keep reading the full & original article HERE