Core values are your compass

Have you ever had a moment where everything in your life feels “off”, even if you can’t quite explain why? That was me a few years ago, sitting in my car during lunch breaks, crying on the phone to my mom, and wondering if this was all life had to offer.

The turning point came when I worked with a life coach who guided me through a simple yet powerful core values exercise. That experience changed everything, and it’s why I’m so passionate about this topic today.

The Wake-Up Call

At the time, I was working a stressful civilian job after leaving active duty. On paper, it looked fine. In reality, it was draining me. When my coach asked me to identify my top values, two came up immediately: peace and love. Then he asked me the question that changed my life: How much of your life currently aligns with these values?

My answer? None of it. No wonder I was burnt out, anxious, and unhappy.

That exercise gave me language for my inner world and revealed the gap between who I was and how I was living. Over time, that clarity gave me the courage to leave the job, start my own business, and build a life aligned with what matters most.

Why Core Values Matter

Core values aren’t fluffy “nice-to-haves.” They are the anchors that keep you steady when life feels chaotic. Research shows that:

• Values conflict fuels burnout. When your workplace or lifestyle doesn’t match your personal values, stress skyrockets.
• Clarity inspires trust. Leaders who know and live their values are seen as more authentic and effective.
• Alignment fuels resilience. Living your values leads to greater motivation, life satisfaction, and well-being.
  
  

Practical Ways to Use Your Values

Once you identify your top three to five values, here’s how they can support you:

• Filter decisions. Saying no gets easier when you know it doesn’t align with what matters most.
• Find meaning. Even hard work feels purposeful when it connects to your values.
• Prevent burnout. Alignment keeps you energized, while misalignment drains you.
• Lead with connection. When you understand your team’s or family’s values, you can support them in more meaningful ways.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Friend, your values are more than words on a list. They are the compass that helps you navigate tough choices, prevent burnout, and lead with heart.

This week, take a moment to reflect: What are my core values, and how aligned is my life with them right now? The answer just might be the clarity you’ve been looking for.

RESOURCES:

September 24th Workshop:

https://fabulous-pioneer-9504.kit.com/products/anchoring-into-your-core-values

SIGN UP FOR THE APP:

https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-app

Dare to Lead Values Exercise:

https://brenebrown.com/resources/dare-to-lead-list-of-values/

Connect with me in the Strong and Resilient Woman Community on Facebook HERE (https://www.facebook.com/groups/yogaformilitarywomen)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryyogi

Podcast Website: www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode81