LIve Fully Today: FLAVOR & SAVOR YOUR ACTIONS WITH VALUES
Add Value to your day by adding Values to your Actions Today!
What are values?
They’re basically adjectives, lol.
My Easy Definition:
Values are the intention(s) that guide your actions.
to clarify your values in mins: CLICK HERE
Flavoring Your actions with Values
Example 1:
Hugging Your Partner While Guided by Values
When you next see your partner, she reaches out for a hug and you hug her back.
How will you hug her back?
If you are guided by—and presently in touch with—values of kindness, gratitude, and connection, your hug might look like this:
Smiling from ear-to-ear
looking deeply into her eyes
you squeeze her firmly
you lift her slightly off her feet and twirl her around
a satisfied “mmmmmmmmmmm…” coming from your mouth
you gently set her on her feet
you tell her:
“I’m so thankful for you” and kiss her lips
Distraction & Disconnection—> Empty Actions
Example 2
Hugging Your Partner While Distracted and Disconnected from Her and Your Values
Lets say it’s the exact same scenario: your partner reaches out for a hug and you hug her back.
This time, though, you are not guided by your values of kindness, gratitude, and connection. Instead, your mind is focused on getting to the tv ASAP to “not miss a minute of this playoff game”. Currently, you’re disconnected from your partner and your values of kindness, gratitude and connection. Your hug might look like this:
Your eyes are locked on the TV,
12 feet behind and slightly to the right where your partner is standing
You make no eye contact with your partner
You give her a ‘bare minimum hug’
You go through the quick motion of crossing your arms over her.
then sprint to the TV
You do not notice that your partner is unhappy with your hug.
You do not notice your partner
nor your dis…connection
VALUES TOOL: Flavoring & Savoring
I recently learned a fun gem-of-a-tool called “Flavoring and Savoring”. As I’ve used it, I’ve found my days more meaningful and value-filled (particularly with peace, joy, and contentment).
I’ve also found it easier to not rigidly grade my day’s success on hitting all my goals. Rather, I view how my day went from a values-oriented lens: “Today, did I act and live intentionally towards what really matters—my values?” Answering yes to this question is the best indicator of a day lived well.
INSTRUCTIONS-
When you wake up in the morning:
Pick 1 to 2 values you want to bring into play in the coming day (e.g. you might pick Growth and Genuineness).
Then, throughout the day:
Look for opportunities to sprinkle those values into whatever you are saying and doing so you give your behavior the flavor of your chosen action.
As you flavor it, savor it:
Notice the effects of living these values.
Appreciate the difference it makes.
My friends,
Focus on what matters: live out your values in small, tangible actions today!
Charles
