Creating Radical Resolutions Part 2:

Values and the Deeper “Why”

Many of us start our resolutions thinking about the “what”…Exercise, read, diet, practice, cook, etc. 

But we don’t articulate the real value we are hoping to get from this change. 

Let’s take a page out of Simon Sinek’s and Brené Brown’s works and find the deeper “why” and the core value.*

If you have a resolution in mind, keep asking “why” until you get to the value that’s at the heart of the change you want to make. 

“I want to exercise more.”

That’s great! Why? 

To be healthier.

That’s great! Why? 

Maybe it’s to live longer.

That’s great! Why? 

So I have as many years as possible to spend with my family. 

Great! So the deeper value behind “exercise” is “family”. 

This helps you stay motivated long-term. It also helps you strategize. You can decide which form of exercise is going to best help you best  lean into your value of “family.” 

Or you could also ask…is there another resolution I can make that puts my value of “family” into action? Maybe you can include your family on your exercise resolution and go on walks in the park together each weekend.  Or maybe this inspires a different resolution altogether. 

We all want to live by our values more. But our values only go so far without action.

Resolutions and habits are a great way to ensure we are putting our values into practice each and every day. 

After all, our lives are made up of our days. 

If you do this “why” exercise and come to a dead-end, or an “other-focused” end, chances are your goal is to change how others see you and hope your life will improve from there. 

Here I might ask: is there another resolution that brings you closer to your own values and joys?

More on this to come in Part 3!

(Check out 'Start With Why' by Simon Sinek and 'Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown).