You may performed an exercise to determine your personal values, but have you thought more on how these values benefit you?

Having values is an initial step to having a sense of purpose. Oftentimes, our happiness is aligned with how well these values work with your daily life. Put differently, the challenges you face violate the values you believe in. I’ve provided three universal situations where values can help you out.

#1: Handling an uncomfortable conversation

Can’t find words to say? Values can guide you here.

Whether its talking to a direct report on performance concern or telling a friend their partner is cheating on them, values provide the backdrop for these conversations. Books will give you best practices, but values will ensure you deliver the message in your own words.

#2: Setting direction when you are lost

There is no compass in defining the path to take in life.

But in the end, you need to take the first step in some direction, and values help you make that call. You may not move in the correct direction, but you are moving in a direction that you align with on a deeper level.

#3: Increasing self-confidence

Ultimately, values tell you who you are and that’s non-negotiable.

While your life may change, your values don’t tend to. This stability empowers you to know who you are and how you handle yourself. In essence, values establishes your character.

Take the time to define your personal values

In the end, these words you chose to define your personal values will be your best guide.