Whenever there is a conflict, usually someone’s core values are being challenged.

One definition of value is 'A principle, standard, or quality considered worthwhile or desirable.' A person's core values cause them to attach meaning and significance to things. They determine what is important in one's life and are deep-level motivators in deciding what actions to take.

 When a person's values are matched with those of others in their personal or professional lives, they feel serene and satisfied. If values are not met, there is a sense of internal conflict. A person's values will also determine how they perceive any particular situation. The same value, however, can be defined differently by different people based on their experiences, beliefs, cultural background, among other things. Therefore, people who have the same value may react to the same situation differently, i.e., siblings raised in the same family.

 Personal values influence decision making because our values determine the outcomes we desire and we make choices that align with those outcomes. Therefore, being fully aware of our values is the way to ensure our decisions and outcomes are in agreement, increase our ability to make purposeful choices and prevent outside influences from negatively altering our commitment. Even though they play such an essential role in accomplishing both personal and professional aspirations, many people are unclear about their core values. 

That is why when starting to work with a client; I always begin by learning about their values. It sits the stage for everything else. To discover yours, go to my website and download the FREE Personal Values Exercise.