Core Values - Your Inner Compass | Larisa Halilović | TEDxFerhadija

Summary

In this engaging talk, the speaker explores the significance of core values in guiding life decisions. They highlight that while simple choices are easy, complex decisions like career or relationships require deeper reflection. The speaker introduces the concept of a 'compass' within us—our core values—which if identified and understood, can help navigate life choices. They encourage the audience to analyze their values, possibly using tools like Susan David's emotional agility test, and to consider how values are acquired and demonstrated. The talk also emphasizes the importance of aligning with others who share similar values and setting life rules based on personal values for a more fulfilling life.

Takeaways

• 🧭 Core values act as a compass that helps guide life decisions, and everyone has access to them already.
• 🔍 Most people have not systematically analyzed their core values, even though they are essential for decision-making.
• 🎯 Identifying core values involves asking yourself what's important, non-negotiable, and characteristics of a good person.
• 👶 Core values are often acquired by the age of five, through demonstration rather than verbal instruction.
• 🚦 Understanding and defining personal values is the first step toward using them effectively in life decisions.
• 🧠 It is crucial to critically evaluate whether values were acquired subconsciously or if they truly reflect personal beliefs.
• 🤝 Surrounding yourself with people who share your values, especially in relationships and work environments, is key to harmony and success.
• 💡 Setting life rules based on your own values, rather than external ones, ensures personal fulfillment and direction.
• 🚨 Moments of intense frustration or anger can help reveal your true core values when something you deeply care about is violated.
• 🌍 Imagining a world where your environment aligns with your core values can motivate you to actively pursue such a life and work situation.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The main topic discussed is the importance of understanding and identifying one's core values, which act as a compass in life for making decisions and guiding personal and professional behavior.

According to the speaker, how many decisions related to food are made in a single day?

According to a Cornell study mentioned by the speaker, over 200 decisions related to food are made in a single day.

What does the speaker mean by having a 'compass' for life decisions?

The speaker refers to core values as the 'compass' that can help individuals navigate through their life decisions, guiding them in a consistent and meaningful way.

How many people in the speaker's experience have analyzed their core values in a systematic way?

In the speaker's experience, only about 10% of people have analyzed their core values in a systematic way.

What are some of the key questions the speaker suggests people ask themselves to identify their core values?

Some key questions include: What is really important to you in a relationship? What matters most to you? What is non-negotiable in your life? What characteristics do you think make a good person?

Why does the speaker emphasize actions over words when teaching values?

The speaker emphasizes that values are not acquired through what is said, but rather through actions and behaviors demonstrated in practice. Values are learned from what people consistently do, not just what they talk about.

What advice did Dr. Radmila Rangel Yusevich give regarding working with values?

Dr. Radmila Rangel Yusevich advised that people should recognize and name their values, critically evaluate and analyze them, connect with others who share similar values, and set life rules based on those values.

What does the speaker suggest you should do if you don’t know what your values are?

The speaker suggests that if you don't know your values, you should reflect on situations where you were really annoyed or upset. Identifying the things that trigger strong emotions can help you understand what values are important to you.

How does the speaker describe the potential impact of knowing and aligning with your values?

The speaker describes that knowing and aligning with your values can lead to a life where you are surrounded by people who share your values, work in a job that supports them, and feel more fulfilled and authentic in your personal and professional life.

What is the speaker’s final piece of advice regarding values?

The speaker's final piece of advice is to figure out your values, as they serve as your compass. If you don't know what they are or how to use them, they cannot guide you effectively through life.