What is the difference between our principles and our values?
Our personal values are hidden deep in our mind. Spending some time to discover them, allows us to see which aspects of our life are aligned with them and which are in some kind of conflict!
Principles
Our principles are pushed to us by others, from the outside world. They are taught to us. They help us conform to the norms of society. Principles are the musts of our life.
Values
Values come from within us. They are all those things we consider important. Values are the wants of our life. They highlight what we stand for. They guide us in life, especially in difficult times. So, our values largely determine our behaviors, decisions, and actions.
When our plain logic does not seem enough to help us make critical decisions, we mobilize our “heart”. The heart always takes decisions that are based on our values. In other words, when our decisions or activities are in line with our values, an internal motivation is created. Everything seems to roll smoothly. We feel joy and pleasure. We are fulfilled.
On the other hand, when we are forced to deal with something that questions values, we get a vague feeling that something is wrong. We might have a sense of internal tension, anxiety or guilt. As a result, procrastination may fire in as well as other unwanted behaviors.
Most common personal values
Our values – like the instruments of an airplane – guide us through the storms. They define what is important to us and what we give priority to. They determine the decisions we make. Each of us has a different mix of values that makes us special. Life flows smoothly when we live according to our values. But when, for any reason, we are forced to live in a way that is against them, then we get that elusive feeling that something is wrong. We can have a bad mood and low energy.
The moment we begin to think, speak and behave in a way which is aligned with our highest ideals and most important values, our self-image improves, our self-esteem rises and for the first time we feel real freedom. We feel much happier, we breathe, walk and move with a radically different confidence.
The list below shows some of the most important human values. First, think thoroughly and then identify which ones resonate with you. Of course, you can always add one you might not see in the list.
| Aesthetics |
| Optimism |
| Integrity |
| Change |
| Solidarity |
| Altruism |
| Recognition by others |
| Tolerance |
| Independence |
| Simplicity |
| Effectiveness |
| Avoid pressure or conflict |
| Determination |
| Security |
| Authenticity |
| Autonomy |
| Self-discipline |
| Self confidence |
| Generosity |
| Creativity |
| Dialogue |
| Justice |
| Action and variety |
| Power |
| Ability to express |
| Volunteering |
| Sincerity |
| Peace |
| Freedom |
| Free time |
| Confidence |
| Inspiration |
| Honesty |
| Development and growth |
| Professionalism |
| Communication |
| Persistence |
| Success |
| Courtesy |
| Inventiveness |
| Leadership |
| Balance |
| Equality |
| Cleanliness |
| Duty |
| Cultivation |
| Kindness |
| Understanding |
| Sociability |
| Prestige |
| Education |
| Family |
| Ecology |
| Teamwork |
| Beauty |
| Vision |
| Spiritual stimuli |
| Variety |
| Challenge |
| Offer to others |
| Initiative |
| Originality |
| Risk taking |
| Respect |
| Wisdom |
| Stability |
| Compassion |
| Cooperation |
| Prudence |
| Continuous learning |
| Travel |
| Art |
| Responsibility |
| Patience |
| Reputation |
| Friendship |
Exercise: Find your own personal values
Don’t wait any longer to make the most valuable investment in yourself. Find those values that are at the core of your existence. Those that motivate you and make you stand out. Once you get to know them, you’ve already taken a big step in your personal development. And that’s only the beginning!
Think and write down your ten most important personal values (try to list them in an order of importance to you):
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Read also the article: An introduction to the wheel of emotions