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Therapy & Recovery

Values Clarification

Values Clarification

Values clarification is the process of exploring and identifying what truly matters to you in life — your personal compass for making choices and finding meaning.

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What is Values Clarification?

Values clarification is a core component of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It involves exploring what you genuinely care about in life — not rules imposed from outside, but personal qualities and directions that give your life meaning.

Values vs. Goals

  • Values are directions (like a compass), never-ending, e.g., "living with integrity"
  • Goals are destinations, achievable and completable, e.g., "get promoted"
  • Why It Matters

    When life is driven by fear, social pressure, or "should" rules rather than genuine values, a deep sense of emptiness often follows. Values clarification reconnects you with what makes life meaningful.

    Getting Started

    Ask: What kind of person do I want to be? What would I regret not doing at the end of my life? What moments have felt most alive and meaningful?

    Mindy is here to explore these questions with you.

    💡 Real-Life Example

    Realizing that 'creativity and growth' are your core values helps you understand why a high-paying but unchallenging job leaves you feeling empty.

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    Want to talk more about "Values Clarification"?

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    This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.