F* Your Passion: Find Your Value (and Actually Live It)

"Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life." -Seneca Begin by engaging in mindful reflection on recent days in your life. Take a moment to consider the past week or so, thinking of specific instances where you felt most fulfilled, the most energized, or the most aligned with a sense of purpose. These might have been moments of achievement, connection, creativity, or simply being deeply present. Don’t overthink it, just let the memories surface. Now, as you recall these specific situations, sift through them. What qualities do they share? What underlying theme connects these experiences? Try to identify the common thread that seems to run through these moments of fulfillment. It might be something like service to others, intellectual curiosity, creative expression, the pursuit of excellence, or the experience of freedom. Focus on the feelings and sensations these memories evoke. Narrow your focus further. Examine those underlying themes and attempt to distill them into a single core value that feels most authentic and important to you. This value becomes your guiding compass. Let's say the exercise reveals that your core value is freedom. In this case, revisit past tasks and memories, and reflect on how often you value being free. Commit to living in accordance with this core value each day. Consider how you can consciously align your actions, choices, and priorities with this value. This clarity will lend direction and meaning to your everyday experiences. Finally, remember that identifying your core value is not merely an intellectual exercise, but a call to action. Use this value as a benchmark for your behavior. Live each day with intentionality and purpose and watch what happens in a short period of time.