Have you ever felt stuck in a job that doesn't quite align with who you are or what you believe in?

Maybe you've found yourself daydreaming about a career change, one that truly resonates with your inner self but when you try and figure out what that would be you simply lose hours and end up confused?

Well just like you this has been me. Many times.

The pursuit of meaningful and fulfilling work is a journey that many of us embark on and the thing is that it is a constant journey because the best work for you is work that aligns with your values. And as life twists and turns and you grow, your values change.

And then some people have never taken the time to actually consider their values and what that looks like in their work.

Yes, your values.

They are those little guiding stars that shape our decisions, actions, and perceptions of the world around us. They're like the compass that helps us navigate the vast ocean of life and yet even though they often are the key to why you are feeling what you feel so few of us take the time to know what they are or why they are so important.

So, why are they such a big deal when it comes to finding work that feels good for you?

Buckle up, because we're about to explore why understanding your values is the driving force behind finding that dream job.

1. Your Values Are Your North Star

Imagine you're on a road trip without a map or GPS. You might wander aimlessly, not sure if you're heading in the right direction. Now, picture your values as that trusty North Star in the night sky. When you're clear on your values, they become your guiding light, helping you make decisions that align with who you are and where you want to go.

For example, if one of your core values is creativity, a job that involves repetitive, mind-numbing tasks might leave you feeling unfulfilled and uninspired. On the other hand, a role that allows you to express your creativity and innovate would be much more in line with your values.

2. Values Help You Define Success

We all have our unique definitions of success. For some, it's climbing the corporate ladder and achieving financial stability. For others, it's about making a positive impact on their community or pursuing a passion project. Your values play a significant role in shaping what success means to you.

Understanding your values helps you set meaningful goals that are aligned with your beliefs. It allows you to differentiate between what society defines as success and what truly resonates with your heart. When you pursue work or a role that reflects your values, you're more likely to feel a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, regardless of external markers of success.

3. Values Fuel Your Passion

Passion is like the rocket fuel that propels you toward your goals. When you're passionate about your work, you're more likely to be engaged, motivated, and willing to put in the effort required to excel. Your values are the foundation of your passion.

Think about it: if you're working in a field that resonates with your values, you'll wake up excited to tackle each day's challenges. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, and you'll find yourself going the extra mile because you genuinely care about what you're doing. Who wouldn't want to work in an environment where passion is the driving force?

4. Values Enhance All Life Balance

In our fast-paced world, achieving healthy balance across all areas of your life can be challenging. However, when your work aligns with your values, it becomes easier to strike that balance. You're less likely to feel burnt out or resentful of your job because it feels like an integral part of who you are.

Your values can help you prioritise what matters most in life. If family is a core value, you'll be more inclined to seek work that offer flexible hours or remote work options, allowing you to spend quality time with loved ones. When work is an extension of your values, it complements your life rather than competing with it.

5. Values Bring Authenticity

Authenticity is a buzzword these days, and for a good reason. We all crave authenticity in our lives, whether it's in our relationships, our choices, or our work. When you understand your values and let them guide your decisions, you're being true to yourself.

There's a certain magic in being authentic or even just honest with yourself. People are drawn to individuals who know who they are and what they stand for. In a professional context, authenticity can help you build trust with colleagues, clients, and employers. When you're authentic at work, you're more likely to find fulfillment because you're not pretending to be someone you're not.

So where to from here?

Understanding your values is like discovering the secret sauce to a fulfilling career. It's the driving force behind finding work that feels good for you. Your values serve as your North Star, helping you make decisions, define success, fuel your passion, enhance work-life balance, and bring authenticity to your professional life.

Why not take some time (right now) to reflect on your values.

Ask yourself some simple questions like:

• What truly matters to you?
• When was a time that made you proud and what were doing/how were you showing up in life?
• What type of people are you inspired by and what is it about them that inspires you?
• What do you want to feel and what are you doing when you feel this way?
• What makes you angry or irritates you and why?
• What is your personal map to success and what does it include? More time, more money, more adventure?

When you align your work with your values, you're on the path to a career that not only pays the bills but also brings joy, purpose, and fulfillment elevating all areas of your life.

Remember, life is too short to settle for anything less than work that feels good for you. Happy starting 😊