How to Identify Your Core Values (and Actually Live by Them)
Walk in alignment with your core values.
Ever feel like you're just winging it through life, hoping things will “click” eventually? Like you’re checking boxes, chasing goals, but still wondering… why doesn’t this feel quite right? If so, you’re not alone. One of the most grounding things you can do—especially if you're a creative soul juggling a thousand passions—is to get clear on your core values.
Think of your core values as your internal compass. When you know what they are, decisions feel easier, relationships feel more aligned, and your days feel more like yours.
Let’s break it down.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.”
So, What Are Core Values Anyway?
Core values are the big, guiding principles that matter most to you. They’re the words that give you that little spark when you hear them: things like freedom, connection, integrity, growth, creativity, joy, or courage.
They’re not goals, and they’re definitely not what other people think you should care about. They’re the things that make you feel like you when you’re living them out loud.
Your core values keep you on the right path.
Why They Matter More Than You Think
When you’re not aligned with your values, life can feel off—like you're stuck in someone else's story. But when you are aligned? That’s when the magic happens.
You:
Set boundaries more easily (because you know what’s non-negotiable)
Choose projects or careers that truly excite you
Stop people-pleasing (because you’re done performing)
Feel more on purpose, even on the messy days
How to Identify Your Core Values
Let’s make this easy. Here’s a 3-step method to zero in on your values without overthinking it:
1. Reflect on Peak Moments
Think back to a time you felt really alive, proud, or fulfilled. What was happening? Who was there? What did it feel like? Write a few of those moments down and look for patterns. Was it about connection? Adventure? Impact?
2. Make a Gut List
Jot down any words that feel like a yes in your body. Don’t judge, don’t filter. Words like truth, creativity, beauty, loyalty, curiosity. Aim for at least 15-20, then narrow it down to your top 5–7.
3. Try Them On
Like a great outfit, you need to wear your values to see how they fit. Live with them. Say no based on them. Make decisions with them in mind. You’ll quickly know which ones feel right—and which were just wishful thinking.
Being true to you sometimes means letting go of old things.
Living By Your Values (Without Losing Your Mind)
Now for the real talk: living by your values isn’t always convenient. It might mean saying no to opportunities, changing old habits, or disappointing people. But it also means showing up as your real self. And that’s worth everything.
Here’s how to start living it out:
Do a values check-in weekly. Ask yourself: “Did I honor my values this week?” If not, what could shift?
Make micro-adjustments. Living your values doesn’t require a full life overhaul. Start small. One decision. One boundary. One creative project that feels like you.
Post them somewhere visible. Sticky notes, phone wallpaper, the first page of your journal—anywhere you’ll see them often. Let them anchor you.
TL;DR? It’s About Coming Home to Yourself.
Identifying your core values isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a practice. And the more you come back to it, the more your life starts to feel like yours. Not just curated. Not just productive. But deeply meaningful, honest, and aligned.
So, what are your core values? Grab a cup of tea, your favorite notebook, and start listening in. Your inner compass is already waiting.
You’ve got this.
Want a free values discovery worksheet to go with this? Drop a comment or sign up for the Textile Reverie newsletter—I’ll send it your way!
