Knowing your priorities is important.
But there is a deeper question:
Why do they matter to you?
That is where your core values come in.
A simple way to understand the difference is:
→ Priorities tell you what matters.
→ Values explain why it matters.
→ Goals turn those values into action.
If family is a major priority, perhaps you value connection,
presence, responsibility, or belonging.
If work is important, perhaps you value achievement,
contribution, financial security, learning, or professional growth.
Look at Your Meaningful Experiences
One of the best ways to identify your values is to examine
moments when you felt deeply fulfilled.
Think about three experiences when you felt:
• Proud
• Happy
• Useful
• Connected
• Challenged
• Meaningfully engaged
Then ask:
"What was important to me about this
experience?"
The event itself may not be your value.
The meaning you attached to the event may reveal it.
Helping a colleague might reveal that you value contribution
or teamwork.
A memorable family experience might reveal connection or
presence.
Learning something difficult might reveal growth or
curiosity.
Frustration Can Reveal Values Too
Your strongest frustrations can also provide clues.
If unreliable people frustrate you, reliability may be
important to you.
If being micromanaged bothers you deeply, autonomy may
matter.
If missing family time creates strong emotional discomfort,
connection may be a core value.
Ask:
"What does this reaction tell me about what I care
about?"
Find the Gap
Now compare your values with your behavior.
If family is important but work constantly consumes your
evenings, there is a gap.
If health matters but rest is continually postponed, there
is a gap.
If personal growth matters but every spare moment disappears
into work or digital distractions, there is a gap.
This does not mean you are hypocritical.
It means you are human.
The purpose is to gradually close the gap between what you
value and how you live.
Try this:
My priority is: ______
This matters to me because: ______
The deeper value behind it is: ______
Then ask:
"If I lived more consistently according to these
values, what would I need to do differently with my time?"
That question can become the foundation for meaningful
change.
Book: Work-Life
Balance — Available on Amazon
Author: Gitangshu Adhikary — Amazon Author Page
