Joshua Routh | Values

Values

Get out a pen and paper and get ready.

This page is a working exercise, not a quiz. Below is a list of common values, each with a short definition. Read through them slowly. Write down any word that catches your attention, even when you cannot explain why yet. That instinct is worth trusting more than you might think.

Click a value below and it will jump you straight to its definition.

If you want the reasoning behind why any of this matters before you start, or you would rather skip ahead to putting a value to work, two short articles cover that:

WHY VALUES MATTER — why naming your values changes the way you handle decisions, disagreements, and boundaries.

VALUES IN PRACTICE — how to turn a value from a word on a list into something you actually use.

Read one, both, or neither. The exercise below stands on its own either way.

How to Use This List

Take a few quiet minutes with the values exercise. Read through the list slowly. Write down the words that catch your attention, even when you cannot immediately explain why. This list is not exhaustive. If one comes to mind that is not here, add it to your own list.

Narrow the list. Define what each value means in your own life. Then choose one small action that would make one of those values more visible this week.

Knowing your values will not tell you exactly what to do in every situation. It will help you recognize the person you want to be while you are deciding.

| Achievement | Adventure | Autonomy | Balance | Compassion | Courage | Creativity | Curiosity | Efficiency | Family | Freedom | Friendships | Growth | Honesty | Humor | Integrity | Justice | Knowledge | Loyalty | Respect | Security | Service | Spirituality | Stability | Success | Tradition | Wealth | Well-being | Wisdom |

Values

Get out a pen and paper and get ready.

If you want the reasoning behind why any of this matters before you start, or you would rather skip ahead to putting a value to work, two short articles cover that:

How to Use This List

Take a few quiet minutes with the values exercise. Read through the list slowly. Write down the words that catch your attention, even when you cannot immediately explain why. This list is not exhaustive. If one comes to mind that is not here, add it to your own list.

Achievement

Achievement is the pursuit of goals and the realization of personal and professional aspirations. It involves setting high standards and striving for excellence to attain desired outcomes.

Adventure

Adventure is the value of seeking new experiences, exploring unknown territories, and embracing risk and uncertainty for the sake of discovery, excitement, and personal growth.

Autonomy

Autonomy is the value of independence and self-determination, emphasizing the ability to make one's own choices and govern oneself without undue influence or control from others.

Balance

Balance is the value of maintaining a harmonious and equitable distribution of time, energy, and resources across various aspects of life, such as work, family, and personal well-being.

Compassion

Compassion is the value of empathy and concern for the suffering and well-being of others, motivating actions to help and support those in need.

Courage

Courage is the value of facing fear, danger, or adversity with resolve and bravery, often in the pursuit of noble goals or principles.

Creativity

Creativity is the value of imagination and innovation, encouraging the generation of new ideas, solutions, and artistic expressions.

Curiosity

Curiosity is the value of a strong desire to learn, explore, and understand new information, experiences, and perspectives.

Efficiency

Efficiency is the value of optimizing resources, time, and effort to achieve desired results with minimal waste and maximum productivity.

Family

Family is the value of prioritizing relationships with close relatives and loved ones, emphasizing support, loyalty, and togetherness.

Freedom

Freedom is the value of personal liberty and the right to act, speak, or think without undue restriction or external control.

Friendships

Friendships are the value of cultivating and maintaining meaningful and supportive relationships with others based on mutual respect, trust, and affection.

Growth

Growth is the value of continuous personal and professional development, striving to improve skills, knowledge, and abilities over time.

Honesty

Honesty is the value of truthfulness and integrity, emphasizing the importance of being genuine, transparent, and straightforward in one's actions and communications.

Humor

Humor is the value of finding and expressing amusement, joy, and lightheartedness, often to relieve stress and build connections with others.

RETURN TO TOP

Integrity

Integrity is the value of adhering to moral and ethical principles, maintaining consistency between one's actions, values, and beliefs.

Justice

Justice is the value of fairness and equity, advocating for the protection of rights and the impartial treatment of all individuals.

Knowledge

Knowledge is the value of acquiring, valuing, and applying information, understanding, and wisdom through learning and experience.

Loyalty

Loyalty is the value of faithfulness and dedication to people, causes, or principles, often demonstrated through consistent support and commitment.

Respect

Respect is the value of recognizing and honoring the dignity, rights, and worth of oneself and others, fostering mutual consideration and esteem.

Security

Security is the value of ensuring safety, stability, and protection from harm or uncertainty, often prioritizing physical, financial, and emotional well-being.

Service

Service is the value of contributing to the well-being and improvement of others and society, often through acts of help, support, and altruism.

Spirituality

Spirituality is the value of seeking a deeper sense of meaning, purpose, and connection with the transcendent or sacred, often through religious or contemplative practices.

Stability

Stability is the value of maintaining consistency, predictability, and reliability in various aspects of life, providing a sense of order and continuity.

Success

Success is the value of achieving desired goals and attaining a sense of accomplishment, recognition, and fulfillment.

Tradition

Tradition is the value of preserving and honoring cultural, familial, or societal customs and practices that provide a sense of identity, continuity, and belonging.

Wealth

Wealth is the value of accumulating and managing financial resources and assets to achieve economic security, comfort, and the ability to fulfill personal and societal goals.

Well-being

Well-being is the value of promoting physical, mental, and emotional health and happiness, striving for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Wisdom

Wisdom is the value of applying knowledge, experience, and insight with discernment and judgment, often seeking to make thoughtful and informed decisions.