As we age, the months and years start to fly by in the blink of an eye. We grasp all the special moments trying not to let go, and we endure the pain and suffering of loss and declining health. Change is inevitable for all of us.
While pondering this, I added my potential years left in this physical world and what I want to do with them. It is natural to seek purpose and meaning. We begin to think of who we are, what we can do to get the most out of our lives, and how to leave the world a better place.
This brought me back to reflect upon my core values.
In the article How to Build a Core Value, published in Psychology Today, Steven Stonsy PH, D defines a core value as the unique human ability to create value and meaning to a specific life experience and life in general. He also states creating value gives purpose and vitality to life, with a stronger motivation to improve, create, build, appreciate, connect, or protect.
When asked what our core values are, many of us can name a few right off the top.
Can you think of some of yours right now?
Have they changed and evolved throughout your life?
One way to identify with your core values is to think about who you admire and respect.
What is it about them that makes you feel this way? Make a list of some of their character traits. By doing this, you can identify with things that are important to you. A core value is expressed not just in thought but in action. For example, a core value is spending time with family, but if we don’t spend time with family, we have to be honest with ourselves and admit that maybe that isn’t a core value or that we need to adjust our lives.
I took time to reflect on this and found that two things came to the surface: My relationship with people and my health. However, adventure was right up there with them when I was younger. Coming to this realization at this point in my life, I have decided to put adventure back at the top with the others.
When our core values are rooted deep into our consciousness, they navigate us through life and how we experience it. When we reach certain stages, we may become more aware of them and consciously expand on them. By doing this, we increase our sense of well-being and authenticity.
I encourage you to stop and think about what’s most important to you and what gives your life meaning. The days, the months, and the years will continue to fly by. We don't get them back.
When it’s all said and done, our life may have flown by in a blink of an eye.
What’s important is what we did with it and how we choose to live it.
Why not live your life on purpose?
My best to your health and wellness,
Yvette
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