For the goal-oriented achiever, success often feels synonymous with checking off milestones and reaching clear endpoints. This drive creates a sense of accomplishment but can sometimes overshadow the deeper "why" behind these goals: our values.
Understanding Values vs. Goals
Goals are specific, measurable, and time-bound—like climbing a mountain peak. Values, however, are guiding principles, such as adventure, curiosity, or growth, that define what truly matters to us. While goals tell us what to do, values explain why it matters.
Unlike goals, values can be more of a daily intention or a direction in life with no definitive end. When aligned, they create a synergy that drives meaningful action. When you live a life full of value and meaning, you are better able to let go of controlling outcomes and are less devastated when things don’t go as planned. This perspective makes it easier to ride life’s ups and downs, creating a more sustainable and fulfilling journey.
Shifting the Focus to the Process
Achievers often measure success by outcomes, yet the process is where the true magic happens. Here’s how to integrate values into daily life:
Identify Core Values Reflect on what excites, motivates, and fulfills you. Engage in values inventories or self-assessment exercises to clarify what matters most to you. For instance, if you value curiosity, ask how your goals can incorporate exploration or learning.
Reframe Goals Through a Values Lens Instead of aiming solely for outcomes, align goals with values. For example, if health is a goal but vitality is a value, focus on enjoying nutritious meals and energizing activities instead of only the number on the scale.
Practice Mindful Action Learn to observe how you feel and what you are experiencing moment to moment. Mindfulness practices, such as pausing to notice sensations, emotions, or thoughts, can help you stay grounded in the present and connect to the value of your actions.
Celebrate Micro-Moments Success isn’t just about achieving the endpoint but noticing progress. Celebrate daily wins, however small, as evidence of living your values. Incorporate practices like gratefulness journaling and self-appreciation journaling to cultivate a sense of accomplishment and joy in the process.
Detach from Perfectionism Being values-driven means honoring the journey, even when it’s messy. Give yourself grace to stumble, trusting that every step contributes to your growth.
The Power of the Process
When achievers embrace the process, they unlock a deeper sense of purpose and resilience. By integrating values into daily actions, you don’t just conquer peaks—you find joy and meaning along the climb. And perhaps the greatest realization is this: the process is the destination.
Finally, Explore Helpful Resources
If you’d like to dive deeper into integrating values into your life as an achiever, consider these resources:
The Enneagram Type Three: Learn more about the motivations and challenges of being a Type Three achiever and how to balance drive with authenticity. Check out the Enneagram Institute’s Type Descriptions for insights.
Brené Brown’s Values Exercise: This tool helps clarify your core values and align your actions with them. Visit Brené Brown’s Living Into Our Values guide to explore.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT provides strategies for accepting life’s challenges, clarifying values, and taking meaningful action. It’s a powerful approach for those seeking to live a values-driven, fulfilling life.
By exploring these resources, you’ll gain tools and perspectives to align your drive for achievement with a deeper connection to what truly matters. This alignment fosters resilience, fulfillment, and a life that is not just goal-oriented but meaning-rich.
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