From values to goals to action
There are basically four steps to engaged action:
1. Choose the area of life where you want to work on creating a change.
2. Select the values that you want to pursue more in this area of life.
3. Set goals that are guided by these values.
4. Initiate conscious and aware action.
Setting values-based goals
Once you have chosen the life area you want to work on and have decided which values you want to pursue, it is time to set the goals.
When setting a goal, make sure it is a SMART goal:
Specific
Meaningful
Attractive
Realistic
Time-defined
Specific: If a goal is truly guided by your values, it will also be personally meaningful. Therefore, if it lacks a sense of purpose, you need to examine whether it is truly guided by your values or whether you are trying to follow a rigid rule, try to please others, or avoid something painful. If it turns out that it is not guided by your values, try setting a new goal.
Meaningful: If a goal is truly guided by your values, it will also be personally meaningful. Therefore, if it lacks a sense of purpose, you need to examine whether it is truly guided by your values or whether you are trying to follow a rigid rule, try to please others, or avoid something painful. If it turns out that it is not guided by your values, try setting a new goal.
Attractive: Does the goal help you move in a direction that, as far as you can predict, will improve your quality of life?
Realistic: The goal should be realistic for you to achieve, considering your health, skills/competencies, finances, and time available.
Time-defined: If possible, you should set a day, date, and time for the actions you want to take. If this is not possible, you should at least set a timeframe.
