Have you ever thought about what truly drives you? What qualities and principles shape the way you live your life? These guiding principles are known as core values, and they play a crucial role in helping us lead fulfilling, authentic lives. In this post, and in my latest You Tube Video we’ll explore what core values are, why they matter, and how you can discover your own through a simple yet effective exercise.

Plus, we will create our own core Value mixed media art cards!

What Are Core Values?

Core values are the fundamental beliefs that define who we are and how we choose to behave. They are the qualities we hold most important, like kindness, honesty, creativity, or wisdom. There are no right or wrong values—each person’s values are unique to them and shape their decisions, relationships, and overall well-being.

Why Are Core Values Important?

Understanding your core values can transform your life in several ways:

• They guide your decisions. When faced with tough choices, your values serve as a compass, helping you make decisions that align with your true self.
• They provide direction. Knowing your core values gives you clarity on what’s important, making it easier to set goals and priorities.
• They bring meaning to life. Living in alignment with your values leads to a greater sense of fulfillment and purpose.
• They help you through challenges. During difficult times, your values can be a source of strength and resilience.
• They shape positive relationships. Identifying your values can help you find like-minded people and build meaningful connections.
• They increase happiness and motivation. When you act in accordance with your values, you naturally feel more motivated and content.

How to Discover Your Core Values

If you’re unsure what your core values are, don’t worry! A simple exercise can help you uncover them. Grab a notebook and follow these steps:

Step 1: Start with a List of Values

Find a list of core value words—there are many available online, or you can use one I’ve provided below:

These lists contain words like honesty, compassion, creativity, growth, and integrity. You can also come up with your own words—there’s no need to stick to a predefined list.

Step 2: Select Words That Resonate with You

Read through the list and write down or circle any words that strongly resonate with you. Don’t overthink it—just choose the ones that feel meaningful. Try to pick around 15-20 words.

Step 3: Narrow Down Your List

Now, start refining your list. Look at your chosen words and ask yourself:

• Which of these values are absolutely essential to me?
• If I had to let go of one, which would it be?
• Which words best represent the person I strive to be?

Continue narrowing down your list until you have just 3 to 5 core values—these are the values that hold the most meaning in your life.

Need More Clarity? Try These Questions!

If you’re struggling to narrow down your values, answering these reflective questions can help:

• What kind of person do I want to be?
• What qualities do the people I admire possess?
• For what qualities and behaviors would I most like to be remembered?
• What behavior could I not live without?
• What qualities do I dislike in others?
• What behaviors make me feel really good, and which make me feel bad?

Final Thoughts

Discovering your core values is a powerful way to gain self-awareness and live a more meaningful life. Once you’ve identified your values, try integrating them into your daily life. Why not create some mixed-media core value cards as a visual reminder of the values that define you.

These cards can be displayed as a permanent reminder of your values. You can put them in a journal. You can use them as journal prompts, meditating on the words and what they mean to you. Or you can store them in your purse or pocket. They are visual reminders of your values as you go about your day to day life.

Head over to MY VIDEO to see how I made these mixed media Core value cards. Have a go at making some for yourself!

What are your top 3–5 core values? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear what matters most to you!