Good intentions are the first step to making positive changes, but let’s be real—it’s easy to have good intentions and a lot harder to act on them consistently. We all want to live authentically, stay true to our values, and do what feels right, but life has a way of pulling us in different directions.
The good news? Aligning your actions with your core values isn’t just possible; it can be an empowering and transformative experience.
Here’s how to move from intention to action and start living a life that reflects your true self.
- Identify What Truly Matters to You
The journey to alignment starts with clarity. Before you can act on your values, you need to know what those values are.
Ask yourself, what matters most to me? Think about what excites you, what you admire in others, and what drives you to get up in the morning. Your core values might include integrity, kindness, creativity, family, or personal growth.
Once you’ve identified a few core values, write them down or keep them somewhere visible. These are your “north stars,” guiding your decisions and actions. By having them clearly defined, you can begin to make choices that reflect what truly matters to you.
- Spot the Gaps Between Your Values and Actions
Many of us have a “values gap”—a space between what we care about and what we actually do. For example, if you value health but often skip workouts and reach for junk food, there’s a gap between your intention and action. These gaps are common, and they’re usually just habits that don’t serve you anymore. The key is to recognize where they exist and start to bridge them.
Take an honest look at your daily routines and decisions. Ask yourself, is this supporting my core values, or is it just a default pattern? Identifying these gaps is a powerful step toward aligning your actions with your true intentions.
- Set Small, Actionable Goals
Trying to completely overhaul your behavior overnight is overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead, start with small, actionable goals that reflect your values. For instance, if you value creativity but haven’t had time to pursue it, commit to setting aside just 10 minutes a day for a creative activity. If family is one of your values, make a plan to have one meal a week without devices so you can connect more fully.
Small, achievable actions create momentum. Each little step brings you closer to a life that aligns with your core values, and over time, those small actions add up to major change.
- Use “Value Reminders” Throughout Your Day
We all get caught up in the daily grind, and it’s easy to lose track of our values. One way to stay on track is to use “value reminders.” These are small cues that bring you back to what’s important. It might be a note on your bathroom mirror, a reminder on your phone, or even a bracelet or charm that symbolizes a key value.
For example, if you value patience, you might keep a quote on your desk that reminds you to slow down and be understanding. Or, if you’re focusing on gratitude, you might set a phone reminder each evening to jot down one thing you’re thankful for. These reminders help you stay grounded in your values, even during busy or challenging moments.
Create a Life That Reflects Your True Self
Living a life that aligns with your values is incredibly fulfilling. It means that your actions support what you genuinely care about, and each choice brings you closer to the person you want to be. If you’re eager to deepen your journey of self-discovery,
To Thine Own Self by Ann Dapice is an inspiring guide to help you along the way. This book goes beyond theory, offering practical exercises and real-life examples that help you uncover your core values and bring your actions into alignment with them. Packed with wisdom, it’s designed to help you explore who you truly are and live a life that reflects your authentic self. Pick up a copy and start creating a life that feels true to you!