Article by francesca depaul, M.S.

Have you ever stopped and asked yourself what you value in life?

Values are what we deem as personally significant. I like to think about values as toppings on a pizza, for example. Some of us may value pepperoni and cheese, while others may value mushrooms and peppers.
The combination of our values is key. Let’s dive a bit deeper…

As a human being, you are guided by an internal compass that houses your personal values. Compasses come in handy when we need guidance or become lost. It is your values that collectively serve as the needle of your internal compass that provides you with clarity and direction. What an innovative tool that we all have in our pockets!

Have you ever stopped and asked yourself if your behaviors align with your values? A tougher question–huh?

It takes effort to reach into your pocket and harness your values. This is where behavior comes into play. As part of our human experience, it is important to live a value-driven life. A value-driven life is one that prioritizes alignment between our values and behaviors.

The absence of this alignment allows for the formation of value-behavior gaps that contribute to internal conflict, feelings of stress and/or poor decision-making. Let’s review an example to better understand gaps versus alignments…

Example:

Value: Kindness

Behavior: Spreading a rumor/gossip

Result: A value-behavior gap

Value: Kindness

Behavior: Pursuing positive communication and promoting the truth

Result: Value-behavior alignment

It is important to bridge any gaps between your values and behaviors. As we prepare for the New Year, it is the perfect time to make this your topic of resolution! Personal reflection is critical in the formation of these alignments. You hold the power to change your behaviors so they align with your values. Besides, wouldn’t it be helpful to let your internal compass guide you?

by francesca depaul, M.S.

Francesca Depaul, M.S. is a therapist in New Hope, Pennsylvania. Francesca offers services in person at our New Hope location and online through our HIPAA compliant platform. She supports individuals, couples, and families through anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. To schedule an appointment click here.

A BETTER LIFE THERAPY

A Better Life Therapy was founded in 2013 with a passion for providing warm, compassionate services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. Our team specializes in relationship health as well as individual mental health. Our team has expertise in areas like anxiety, grief, depression, pregnancy related issues, sexual issues, substance use and trauma.