You may have heard the buzz term living in your truth or living an authentic life, but what does that truly mean and how does one do that?

One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is living in alignment with what feels morally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually right for you. From ages 5 to 7, we begin to form our basic understanding and beliefs, which crystallize into core values by around age 10. As we transition from childhood into young adulthood and beyond, we encounter diverse environments and experiences that shape our thinking. While these influences can broaden our horizons and present new possibilities, they can also cloud our judgment, leading us to act out of character and drift away from our values.

By cultivating intentional awareness of our values, we can reconnect with our inner child, which serves as a moral compass. This awareness guides us through challenging decisions, helping us stay true to ourselves and navigate life with clarity and purpose.

Values serve as a guide to our decisions and actions. For instance, if you hold integrity in high regard and witness a stranger drop $100 from their pocket, you’re likely to pick it up and return it. However, if you choose to keep the money instead, you might later experience feelings of guilt. This guilt can manifest in various ways, such as restless nights, overthinking your choices, or feeling withdrawn in everyday interactions. When our values are unclear, it becomes difficult to set boundaries, communicate effectively, and build healthy relationships. Leading us to feel disconnected, unhappy, and make decisions we are not always proud of.

Becoming aware of your values is the first step in identifying your blueprint for a fulfilling, authentic life.

How do I know what my values are?

Begin by writing a list of your top 5-10 values.
Think of moments in your life when you felt deeply fulfilled or truly happy. What values were present during those times?
Think about people you admire and the values they portray that resonate with you. What about those people make you drawn to them?
Talk to your family and friends about your values and seek their input. The way loved ones see you can help illuminate what they see as important to you.

How do I ensure I am living my values?

After writing your list of values, highlight the ones that are non-negotiables. Non-negotiables are an example of boundaries that you are not willing to compromise for the sake of someone or something else. For instance, if you prioritize spending time with your family but receive a job offer with a high salary that requires long hours away from home, you’re likely to find yourself unhappy if you accept it. For someone who values family, a crucial non-negotiable might be that any job must allow ample time for family, regardless of the financial incentives. If that condition isn’t met, they would likely decline the offer, knowing that their happiness hinges on being present with their loved ones. Often, people will confuse their values when they are not clear on what is important to them.
Evaluate your current life and assess where your life is not in alignment with your identified values. Where do you feel out of sync or misaligned? How do you notice that impacting you? By becoming more aware of what values are not being met currently, it can help guide decisions to make changes that are meaningful.
Recognize that some values can evolve over time. For instance, spending time with family may not be as important if you are single. If later in life you have children or find a partner, you may find that family shifts into a bigger priority. It is okay for values to evolve with you. In fact, it is important that your values align with your current self, not the version of you 5 years ago.
Re-evaluate your values annually to ensure you are in alignment. This practice builds self- awareness as well as reinforces the importance of following your compass to live a more purposeful and authentic life.

The word "authentic" derives from the Greek term "authentes," meaning one who acts on their own authority. I can’t think of a more courageous and liberating way to live. It’s a true gift to present your whole, complete self to the world without compromise.

connect here