Why Your Values Are So Important

Before setting goals, choosing a career path, or even hiring your next team member, one thing must be clear: your values. This is the foundation that every decision is built upon. Your values are like a compass-- making sure you’re always on course.

Clarity First, Then Action

Getting crystal clear on your values isn’t just a feel-good exercise—it’s how you become more decisive. When you know what truly matters to you, decision-making becomes less about guessing and more about aligning. Whether it's choosing a career that resonates with your passion, or hiring someone who fits your company culture, clear values are the north star.

Eliciting Your Values in Business

Here’s a simple yet powerful exercise to elicit your values:

1. List Everything You Value: Start by writing down everything that’s important to you in your business or career. Don’t hold back—write it all down. Use your unconscious mind to keep the words flowing. For example, "impact, money, freedom."
2. Prioritize: Once you have your list, start numbering them in order of importance, with the most important at the top.
3. Circle Your Top Five: These are your core values. These are the non-negotiables.

Aligning Decisions with Your Values

When faced with a decision, ask yourself: Does this align with my core values, or does it go against them? If it aligns, move forward with confidence. If it conflicts, it’s time to reconsider. This simple check can prevent costly mistakes and keep you on the path that’s true to who you are and what you stand for. And, allow you to be clear with your team or partners.

Pro Tip: Do this exercise with your partner. (Business or romantic.) It can help create conversation around goals and help understand each other better.

In everything you do— take action, and let your values lead the way. #pressplay

Kimiko Donahue, CIC | Follow Kimi | Book a Meeting

Kimi is a former CEO, 4x Founder, 2x Agency Owner and investor.

Certified NLP Trainer, Master Practitioner of NLP, MER?, and Hypnosis and currently obtaining her Integrative NLP Coach certifications.

She spends equal parts being a Mom, Artist, Insurance Leader, Singer, Heavy Metal Lover, and Professional Empath.