What are core values?
Core values are the fundamental principles that guide your decisions, behavior, and priorities in life. They define what truly matters to you, regardless of circumstances or external expectations.
Core Values – Frequently Asked Questions
Why are core values important?
Because they:
- Provide clarity and direction in life.
- Help you make aligned decisions.
- Enhance self-awareness and personal growth.
- Improve relationships by fostering authenticity.
- Increase overall life satisfaction and fulfillment.
How do I identify my core values?
The most reliable way is through a structured decision-based process, not casual reflection. Comparing values against each other reveals real priorities and reduces bias.
Do core values change over time?
Values themselves tend to be stable, but their priority order can change due to:
- major life events
- changes in roles or responsibilities
- personal crises or growth
Revisiting your values helps you stay aligned.
How many core values should I have?
Typically:
- 3–5 primary values
- up to 10 meaningful values total
More than that reduces clarity and decision-making usefulness.
What is the difference between core values and goals?
- Core values define how you want to live
- Goals define what you want to achieve
Goals change.
Values remain your long-term compass.
Can core values conflict with each other?
Yes — and this is normal.
Common conflicts include freedom vs. security or ambition vs. family.
Understanding these tensions leads to clearer, guilt-free decisions.
How do core values affect career choices?
Strongly. They help you:
- choose environments that fit you
- avoid long-term dissatisfaction
- reduce the risk of burnout
The goal is not a “good job”, but a values-aligned career.
Is there a universal list of core values?
There are common value sets, but:
- there is no single “correct” list
- meaning is personal
- hierarchy matters more than presence
Your values only matter if they reflect your priorities.
Are core values tests accurate?
They can be — if they rely on forced choices and comparisons, not self-ratings.
The most reliable tests:
- require trade-offs
- minimize social desirability bias
- reveal relative importance
How can I use my core values in daily life?
You can use them as:
- a decision filter
- guidance during change or uncertainty
- a reference point in relationships
- a personal development tool
Values are useful only when applied consciously.
Do core values help with relationships?
Yes. They help you:
- understand recurring conflicts
- communicate needs more clearly
- build relationships based on alignment rather than constant compromise
How often should I revisit my core values?
Especially during:
- career or life transitions
- burnout or stagnation
- a regular review every 1–2 years
Think of it as a personal alignment check.
Are core values the same as personality traits?
No.
- Personality describes how you tend to behave
- Values describe what you choose and prioritize
People with similar personalities can hold very different values.
Where should I start with discovering my core values?
Start by:
- identifying relevant values
- ranking them by importance
- checking where your life is out of alignment
This creates immediate practical insight — not just self-knowledge.
