We already know that having the latest and greatest cars, electronics, etc doesn’t actually bring us the happiness that we so desire. So what does?
Knowing your values can lead you in the right direction here. Do you value a Higher Power? Growth? Mastery? Creativity? Knowing your values will give you have a true North when you need it the most.
Here is a list of values that will help you get started. Choose your top ten values and make a choice to align your behaviors with what you choose is most important to you. The more in alignment you are with your values on a day- to-day basis, the less anxious and overwhelmed you will feel in your everyday life.
This is a big one. If you do nothing else after reading this, other than find 20 minutes to choose your values – it will be well worth your time. Knowing what guides you will give you structure and confidence in being who you want to be, and finding that spark and joy in life again.
Remember to talk kindly to yourself as you do this. Affirm and reassure yourself for the hard work you are doing to care for your mental wellbeing. If you already do many of these things and talk harshly to yourself, then you may be undoing all your hard work without realizing it.
Try talking to yourself in a way that is similar to:
“It will work out the way it will.”
“I am doing the best I can with what I have.”
“This too will pass.”
“I am deserving/worthy.”
Remember that you are good enough even when you don’t always feel like you are. Choose an objective piece of evidence to support this too as sometimes we just forget that it is there. E.g. “I am a loyal friend because I called Sam this week as I promised her I would. This makes me a good enough friend and person because I care.”
