Are You Living By Your Values?

Some of the most important work I do with my clients is to help them craft their own, unique definition of success, based on their personal values, priorities and goals.

One of the first questions I ask a new client is, “what does success in your life and career look like to you?”

Many of us never ask ourselves this question. We start on a path and never stop to question whether this path is still right for us.

Recently, a client came to me feeling unmotivated and frustrated. Pretty quickly, we uncovered what was keeping him stuck. He realized that he was chasing someone else’s definition of success and not his own. He was a VP of Finance for a company that developed software development tools. The money was good, the benefits were good, he was recognized and respected at work, but he still felt disconnected and unfulfilled.

Through reflection, he realized that he was not living a life that reflected his values and priorities. He prioritized family time and meaningful community impact, not corporate success. With support from his family, he transitioned to a nonprofit that was aligned with his values and interests.

True success and happiness come from living authentically, not from external markers like money or recognition.

So, how can you start living by your own definition of success?

1. Reflect on your personal values and priorities to create your own definition of success and purpose.

2. Set clear goals and manageable steps towards them.

3. Give yourself grace as you sort through this. It takes courage to make significant changes in your life, especially if  others question your choices. (What? You are going to give up that salary?”)

Ultimately, your journey to success and happiness is guided by your own personal values and choices.

Just make sure they are YOUR values and choices, not someone else's.