Let’s talk about values.
We all have them—those core beliefs that shape how we live, work, and make decisions.
But here’s the thing: most people say they value certain things, like health, family, or success, but their actions tell a different story.
Sound familiar?
You say you value health, but are you skipping workouts and living off junk food?
You claim family is important, but are you spending quality time with your loved ones, or is work always taking priority?
The truth is, actions reveal real values.
What you do every day is a far clearer indicator of your priorities than what you say.
If you want to live a life that feels genuine, meaningful, and aligned with your true self, you have to make sure your actions reflect your values.
So how do you make sure your actions match your values?
Here's the answer: take action that aligns with your core beliefs.
Let’s dive into how you can start.
Why Your Actions Matter More Than Words
We all have values. They’re the beliefs that influence what we do. But when your actions aren’t reflecting those values, it creates tension.
Ever heard of cognitive dissonance?
It’s the uncomfortable feeling that comes from the conflict between your words and your actions. And let me tell you—it feels awful.
It’s that feeling when you say one thing but do another.
Like saying “I value health,” but then spending your time watching Netflix on the couch instead of moving your body.
Or saying “family is my priority,” but always putting work ahead of them.
That misalignment? It leads to frustration, stress, and a sense of being stuck.
But when your actions align with your values? Magic happens.
You feel more at peace. Decisions become easier. Life becomes clearer. So, let’s fix that disconnect.
Step 1: Clarify Your Values
If you want to make sure your actions align with your values, you need to first know what you truly value.
Sounds basic, right? But you’d be surprised how many people can’t actually define what’s important to them.
Take some time.
Sit down and figure out what truly matters to you—is it health, relationships, growth, success?
Write it down.
Now, ask yourself:
Are your daily actions supporting these values?
If the answer is no, don’t panic. Just start by being honest with yourself. Knowing where you stand is the first step to making a change.
Step 2: Audit Your Actions
Once you’ve identified your values, take a look at how you’re actually spending your time.
- What are you doing day in and day out?
- Are your actions aligned with your values, or are you letting distractions and bad habits take over?
For example, if you say you value health, but you spend hours on social media instead of moving your body or preparing a healthy meal, there’s a clear misalignment.
Start tracking where your time goes.
Write down how you spend your day and then ask yourself, Does this line up with what I claim to value?
You’ll be shocked by what you discover. But the key is being honest. Don’t sugarcoat it.
Step 3: Make Decisions Based on Your Values
Once you know what your values are and how your current actions don’t align, it’s time to make decisions that reflect those values.
Be intentional with every decision you make.
Ask yourself, “Does this move me closer to my values or take me further away?”
For example, if you claim to value family but find yourself working late every night, you need to make a conscious choice to shift that.
Schedule time for your family. Say “no” to work when it interferes with what matters. Start prioritizing quality time with your loved ones.
When you make decisions that reflect your true values, it’s like flipping a switch.
Suddenly, life gets a lot easier. You feel lighter. You’re acting in line with who you really are.
Step 4: Set Boundaries
You’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s worth repeating: set boundaries.
If you want your actions to align with your values, you need to protect your time.
Protect your energy. Protect your focus.
Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your values.
Whether it’s a work request, a social obligation, or anything else that drains you—if it doesn’t support your values, don’t do it.
For instance, if you value personal time but you keep letting other people’s needs override your own, it’s time to set stronger boundaries.
Saying “no” doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you someone who respects their own values and priorities.
Step 5: Find Accountability
You’ll need someone to hold you accountable along the way.
Find someone—whether it’s a friend, mentor, or coach—who can check in on you and make sure you’re staying true to your values.
Accountability partners are game-changers because they make sure you’re consistently taking actions that align with your goals.
They push you when you’re slacking, celebrate your wins, and remind you of why you’re doing this in the first place.
Step 6: Be Willing to Adapt
Life changes. Your values might evolve. And that’s okay.
Don’t be afraid to adapt as you go. What worked for you in one stage of life might not work in the next.
Be open to adjusting your actions as your values shift. Flexibility is key.
But always come back to your core values. That’s your foundation.
Real-Life Example: Aligning Actions with Values
Let’s say you value personal growth, but you spend most of your time scrolling social media, binge-watching TV shows, or procrastinating.
The disconnect between what you say you value and what you’re actually doing will leave you feeling unfulfilled.
Here’s how you fix it: take action.
Start by setting aside 30 minutes a day for learning. Pick up a book, watch an educational video, or take an online course.
Over time, these small actions add up, and soon you’ll be living in alignment with your value of personal growth.
Final Thoughts: Live Authentically
Living authentically means aligning your actions with your values.
It’s about making intentional choices every day that reflect who you truly are.
And when you do this, life gets easier. You feel more fulfilled. You feel more at peace.
The best part?
By aligning your actions with your values, you stop wasting time and energy on things that don’t matter.
You start focusing on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. And as a result, you’ll build stronger relationships, achieve your goals, and live a life that feels authentic.
So take a step back. Get clear on your values. Audit your actions. And start living in alignment today.
You’ve got this.
This post was inspired by Derek Siver's book Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing.
