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By: Miloni Patel
Life is hard enough already to navigate. There are so many twists and turns and bumps that shape your path. Your values can act like your GPS that helps keep you on track. Acting according to your values can help you live a more fulfilling and authentic life. I think college students are at the perfect age to try and figure out what rules they want to live their life by. What energizes you versus depletes you? What characteristics in others either draw or deter you? What do you think is moral versus immoral? How do you believe one should act? Once you take time to understand what you value living your life by, it will give you clarity in your relationships, friendships, and professional life. From deciding what city you want to live in to whom you want to settle down with, every decision is easier to make when you make them according to your values.
I have realized that my two strongest values are authenticity and loyalty. I will stand by those who are closest to me no matter what and I want them to do the same for me. I want to be the truest version of myself in my relationships and hope that others can do the same. I realized that in my career I need to be able to be passionate about my industry and forge deep connections with others in order to live according to my values. These kinds of insights about yourself are so valuable and will help generate long-term happiness for yourself.
Acting according to our values brings personal fulfillment. Things will start to fall in place and just feel “right” as we go through life, since we will be experiencing less value misalignment or value rub. Whatever goal you set or destination you are trying to reach, the journey will be one of quality and authenticity as you stay true to what you really believe. You won’t have to worry about losing yourself and the things you stand for that make you so unique as you pursue endeavors. You will automatically feel more at peace and content with yourself and the decisions you choose to make regardless of any external factors such as success or failure.
Living by your values also has significant benefits for your mental health as you will feel a clear sense of purpose and stability. It will automatically bring joy and satisfaction to your life as you feel confident at every step, rather than living according to how others want you to act. When your actions are at odds with your core beliefs it brings feelings of uncomfortability, uneasiness, and anxiety. You can limit that for yourself by sticking to what you believe in and promoting your psychological well-being.
We are constantly bombarded by conflicting messages of what is right and wrong and sticking to your own values can be incredibly challenging. However, it is also equally rewarding as you will develop a newfound sense of independence as you succumb to societal pressures less. Understanding your values can truly shape the course of your life.
The world is complex and filled with distractions. Cut through the noise by reflecting on what really matters to you. Take time to explore and live by your values now. Regardless of what comes your way, you will always feel anchored!
About The Author:
Miloni Patel '26
Psychology & Human Dimensions of Organization
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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