This week was the start of a coaching programme that I am participating in.  It is brilliant, fun and also very out of my comfort zone.  I wanted to say ‘no’ to it initially – far easier to not commit … but then I also had to override those chattering concerns and just go for it.  

During the first week I was asked to reflect upon my values.  This is an exercise that slightly stresses me because I am just so unsure as to where to start.  They also change.  Also, I fear that I do not actually know!  

So, acknowledging that the internal debilitating dialogue is just another distraction and excuse, I started to write.  And then for the rest of the week I stared noticing what is important to me, what I really appreciate in others, what bugs me.  

In taking this exercise seriously, I have found that I have been more intune with my work.  Also I have taken notice as to how I would like to be treated by others.  This exercise gives one a solid compass – and this is a very useful tool for navigating direction!

You DO know what is important to you.   You DO know what your values are.  You do have a strong inner compass.  You really really do and you can trust yourself with this one – even if you ‘feel’ that you cannot.

Your list of values will change and expand as you keep ‘aware’.  And this list I hope will be encouraging to you, motivating and even energising.  

There were a couple of exercises that I have done in the past … am doing again … and will no doubt be doing again in the very near future.  I am going to ask you these questions.  There is no right or wrong … this is YOU.  Also your answers will change and you will want to add or even subtract as you ruminate on them.  So here goes

What do you believe to be important in the way that you live and work?What really matters to you? 

How do you want to be treated by others?

What inspires you? 

What kinds of behaviour really upsets you?

How do you want to show up in your own life each day?

This exercise has been important for me to do as it helps me to focus myself throughout my day.  It is the reminder of what is genuinely important to me.   

Do get writing …start observing yourself and others … and I hope that this exercise gives you clarity and excitement.  May this help you to steer your ship!