Values Checkup
Step one in my annual goal-writing process— deep introspection that allows for a thorough reflection of whether or not I am living according to my values, or if perhaps the rank and order of them has shifted.
What are my values? 2020 Check-Up
#1 Growth… I am here to build. When I say that I mean I'm here to build both the tangible (roads, bridges, pipelines, etc.) and the abstract (networks, meaningful connection, opportunities, etc). I feel alive when I'm adding value to the things that I work on; being a contributor. My mantra has become, "The trouble is, you think you have time" because it best describes the pace and vigor with which I’ve lived. The long term vision of the 10-story black glass building is still the place my thoughts land when I have to look far, far into the future. Still isn’t clear what sort of business is going to be housed in that beautiful building, but our company will occupy the highest four floors.
#2 Gratitude… I believe strongly in thanking the universe for what I have. Hard work goes a very long way, but circumstances and luck of the draw have also put me in a fortunate position. I intend not to forget this or con myself into believing I created the string of successes-- life is incredibly circumstantial and I happened to get a great set of cards.
#3 Family… My family is such a source of happiness for me and I should carve out a bigger effort to support their emotional needs (like seeing them more regularly, calling them on my long drives, stopping in for a quick glass of wine, inviting them downtown more often).
#4 Passion… this drives healthy risk taking and "joie de vivre" behavior (smell the leaves as I run in the river valley, pause to admire the architecture, appreciation for the talents of the chef that created the delicious meal). I am happiest when I am deeply involved in whatever I set my mind to. My only fear is that I don't give this life everything I've got. We are all leaving this world eventually, may as well see what happens if I really go for it!
#5 Health/Vitality/Beauty… health is definitely the foundation for my happiness. I am going to continue to focus and experiment with food choices that promote longevity. I am also going to continue to carve out my style, and become the "woman I wanted to be". Artistic beauty is necessary to motivate us and make us ponder our existence.
#6 Worldliness… perhaps I am not the most nurturing, or the most giving of my time. But hopefully I can inspire people to explore the world, seek to know things outside of their comfort zone, become better at adopting a certain “chameleon ease” in new environments. Being able to adapt and blend into many different situations, conversations and cultural norms is how I think of "worldliness". I value it because I see it as an extension of manners and respect.
A summary of my values:
Being successful in my endeavors is important to me.
Close relationships are of the utmost importance to me and they are central in the decisions that I make.
Making a positive change in the lives of others adds meaning to my life.
I seek opportunities to constantly develop and learn from my experiences.
Feeling that I am well provided for and able to acquire what I want makes me happy.
B-level work is bad for my soul.
