Values- What is Important to You?
October 28th, 2022
It is good practice for all of us to know both what is important and what is enjoyable in life. This topic is discussed during the client meetings where I often ask clients to find a place where they can relax, free up their minds and think about it. Contemplate what you would like and not what others say is important. Many of us, simply do not take the time to ask ourselves these questions, let alone answer them. However, for those of us that do, the answers can provide direction which can lead us toward establishing important life goals.
There have been numerous studies that found that for many of us, memorable life events occur while sharing time with the people we care about the most. This has been shown to be a universal trait across different cultures. Clients often begin this exercise by listing some simple pleasures like having coffee, going for a walk, saving for a goal, or learning something new. It is good to wait and see what other ideas come to mind with some people taking several days or weeks to explore.
We also have conversations on values during our meetings with clients, what are yours? Are you keeping these values in mind in everyday life? Does the way you spend your money reflect your values? We often go thru the process of setting short (a year or less), medium (1 – 5 years), and long-term (5 + years) goals using the SMART goals method, Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound.
Specific – target a specific area for improvement.
Measurable – quantify or at least suggest an indicator of progress.
Assignable – specify who will do it.
Realistic – state what results can realistically be achieved, given available resources.
Time-related – specify when the result(s) can be achieved.
This process begins a framework to help clients solidify their goals and learn more about themselves.
If you haven’t done so, think about making a short, medium, and long-term goal by using this method and let us know how it went.