The Function of Values
When we express ourselves, share our voices, or really do anything, it is natural for us to first examine our individual value such as what we hold dear, find the most important, or the values of the companies we work for. Our understanding of values stems from an early age, and is often most influenced by those we were raised by and surround ourselves with. That being said, why are they so important?
In the article “Why Values are Important” which was published by the Barrett Values Centre, they summarize the importance of values by stating “Our values are important because they help us to grow and develop. They help us to create the future we want to experience” (par. 1). With this in mind, it is important to note that because our values often guide us in life, our actions are often reflections of them.
Types of Values
Although, we must also acknowledge how these values could be categorized, and in what ways they exist in our society if we want to exercise them properly. So here are some ways in which they are categorized, from most personal, to most universal from the Barrett Values Centre article:
- Individual values
When it comes to individual values, these are the values that show up in your life that are specified and catered to your specific needs. They are also typically the principles you live by.
- Relationship values
Relationship values are the values that reflect how you relate to other people in your life, whether it be family, friends, colleagues, employers, romantic partners, etc.
- Organizational values
These values reflect how an organization presents itself and operates in the world.
- Societal Values
Societal values, are a culminations of all the organizations and people of the world, and the generally widely-accepted standards and principles.
The Effects of Values: An In-Depth Look
To close this blog post, I’d like to address a facts and benefits about values from an article by Lifehack to keep in mind as you move forward. Some of those being:
- They can help you find your purpose by making you ask what you value most.
- They can help you react in difficult situation by providing you some guiding principles.
- They can help you make decisions.
- They can help you clear out clutter: both physically and mentally. And, ultimately make decisions on what should be removed from your life based on the value they have to you.
- They help you develop a sense of self by developing stronger opinions on subjects and figuring out what you believe in.
- They help you develop confidence by bringing a sense of stability and safety in your life.
- They just overall contribute to your happiness
So, moving forward, I hope you hold your values dear, and continue to exercise them as you see put, and share your voice in the process.