bythemethod.com blog

In a recent study undertaken by Jennifer Crocker and Yu Niiya from the University of Michigan and Dominik Mischkowski from the University of Konstanz it has been shown that thinking about what you value can help you in life.

It has long been believed that reflecting on your values raises your self esteem and so makes you less defensive when you have to address your problems. However this study has shown that reflecting on values makes you more focussed on others which makes them more loving and connected to others.

You can read more about this study here:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080722113022.htm

My own feeling is that both theories have merit. That reflecting on your values can raise your self esteem and help look beyond themselves.

I would recommend anyone to take some time to think about their values. Why not try doing it this way:

Write a list of values and then pick 5 of these as your main values.

Now rank that list in order of importance.

Then write for 10 minutes on why you think the one you have picked as number 1 is so important.

Why not let us know what your favoured values are by leaving a comment below.