Outfit: dress, H&M, old, similar here and here; espadrilles here (they usually get restocked), similar here; bag here and here

The pandemic, as well as the events of this past year sure put things in perspective for a lot of people. And as our lives and what we thought was important changed in the blink of an eye, we were forced to step back and reevaluate things, and our beliefs. Many of us did some soul searching this past year, as well, or I know I did. And, as a result, I re-established the things that matter to me, part of that being my values, and I wanted to talk about that on here today.

So, about values… the dictionary defines them as “a person's principles or standards of behavior; one's judgment of what is important in life”, and here’s my take on this…

Different things matter to different people, and for a sense of direction in life, one must create a set of values that serve as pillars - rules not to sway from when it comes to people, things, and places you allow in your life.

I have been thinking a lot about that in the last few years, and as I have the tendency to observe and think a little too much, I have seen that a lack of set values leads to destruction, including the one of self. Often enough, people forget about values in pursuit of money, power, fame, and whatever else they desperately want in their lives.

If you’re not clear on what your values are, it is much easier to lose them and yourself, hence losing determination or even purpose in life, not to mention “inviting” people and situations that ultimately aren’t right for you, and/or lead you on a wrong path. However, when you live in line with your values, you will feel more fulfilled and “at peace” with yourself and be able to easily recognize instances that could steer you away from them.

How you set your values, you may ask? Well, it requires some thinking and digging inside you, and you can start with determining the things that you follow, or would like to follow in your life, as well as establishing the qualities you admire in others and yourself. Once you have those down, practice and apply them in your life.

As an example, some of my values are integrity, morals, humanity, love, family, health, and character. The latter incorporates the qualities I look to cultivate in myself and spot in others, and I steer clear of people whose values vary greatly from mine - it is mostly true that sooner or later you become what/who you allow in your circle, and that also applies to attitude and personal energy.

What are your thoughts on values?

Be and stay true to yourself!

xoxo,

Em