209+ Personal Values A-Z (Definition + Examples)

practical psychology logo
Published by:
Practical Psychology
on

Imagine a compass that guides our thoughts, decisions, and actions; that's what personal values are like for each one of us.

Personal values are deep-seated beliefs and principles that influence our choices, shape our behaviors, and provide a framework for understanding our place in the world. Whether we're aware of them or not, our values play a vital role in determining the course of our lives.

From shaping our personal relationships to guiding our professional aspirations, they act as invisible threads weaving the tapestry of our experiences.

In this article, we'll delve deep into the realm of personal values, exploring their psychological underpinnings, the difference between collective and individual values, and even debates surrounding their nature.

Plus, we'll provide a comprehensive list of personal values examples for those curious about identifying and reflecting on their own core beliefs.

The Psychology of Values

girl holding a heart

When psychologists talk about values, they mean the things that are super important to us—kind of like our invisible rulebook.

Let's say you really care about honesty; that means you're more likely to tell the truth, even when it's hard. So, in psychology, a value isn't just some idea; it's like a guiding star that helps us make choices in our lives.

These values could be things like love, respect, or courage. Each of these shapes the way we act, what we say, and even what we think about in our free time.

But values aren't just single words or simple ideas; they're more complex.

For example, if you value "family," that might mean you spend a lot of time with your relatives, or it might mean you're working hard to give them a better life.

Each person's value has its unique flavor, like ice cream! You and your friend might both love ice cream, but you might like chocolate, and they might prefer vanilla. It's the same with values. We might share similar values but interpret them in our own special way.

Why Values Matter

You might be wondering, "Why should I even care about values?" Well, values are like the GPS in our brain that helps us make decisions. Think about when you have to choose between doing your homework and hanging out with friends. Your values guide you in making that choice.

If you value education, you'll likely choose to do your homework. If you value social connections more, you might opt to spend time with your friends.

Values also shape our emotions and how we react to things. Imagine someone lies to you. How you feel about that—angry, hurt, or maybe forgiving—is influenced by your values. If you value honesty highly, you might get really upset. On the other hand, if you value forgiveness, you might be more understanding.

Even more, our values affect how we treat other people. If you value kindness, you're more likely to help someone in need without expecting anything in return. So, values are super powerful; they influence not just our actions but our feelings and the way we treat others, which is pretty awesome when you think about it!

Knowing what values we hold is important for mental health too. On the flip side, an interesting study recently showed that individuals with mental health disorders tend to value tradition, conformity, and security more than people without a disorder. Identifying and living by our values also helps people recover and manage their mental disorders.

The Formation of Values

Values aren't just something that appear out of nowhere; they grow and shape themselves over time like a tree. When you're little, your parents, or whoever takes care of you, plant the first seeds of these values. Maybe they teach you to say "please" and "thank you," which helps you learn the value of politeness.

As you get older, other things like school, friends, and experiences water this value tree, making it grow stronger or sometimes changing its shape. A teacher might inspire you to value learning, or a good friendship might teach you the importance of trust. Even the books you read or the shows you watch can make you think differently about what's important to you.

It's kind of like building a LEGO tower. Each LEGO block is an experience or lesson that adds to your values. And just like a LEGO tower, your value system can change if you decide to rearrange some blocks. That's why it's cool to keep learning and having new experiences; they can help you understand your values better.

Values and Mental Health

Believe it or not, knowing your values can even make you feel happier and less stressed. It's like having a map for a treasure hunt; when you know where you're going, it's a lot easier to get there. People who understand their values often have a clearer idea of what makes them happy, what kinds of jobs they might enjoy, or even what kind of friends they want to have.

Not knowing your values, or going against them, can make you feel lost or confused. Imagine trying to sail a boat without a compass; you might end up going in circles or getting stuck. That's why it's good to spend some time thinking about what really matters to you.

In fact, psychologists often help people explore their values when they're going through tough times. It helps people make better choices and even deal with problems like stress or sadness. So, understanding your values isn't just a neat idea; it's a tool that can help you navigate the ups and downs of life.

The Difference Between Values and Morals

You've probably heard the words "values" and "morals" used a lot, and sometimes, they're used almost like they mean the same thing. But guess what? Even though they're close cousins, they're not exactly twins. Let's take a closer look at how they're different and why it's important to know the difference.

What are Values?

You've already got the scoop on what values are—those guiding stars that help you make decisions in life. Remember, values can cover a lot of ground. They can be things like honesty, family, and even personal freedom. But the key thing is, values are your personal guidebook. They're what you think is important in life, and they help you decide how you act, think, and feel.

What are Morals?

Morals, on the other hand, are more like a community's rulebook about what's right and wrong. These are the dos and don'ts that help people live together without turning everything into a giant mess. For example, most people agree that stealing is wrong—that's a moral standard. Morals often come from bigger places like cultural beliefs, religious teachings, or even laws.

How are They Different?

Imagine you're in a ship. Your values are like your personal map, showing you where you want to go based on what's important to you. Morals are like the general sea rules that all ships should follow, like "don't crash into other boats."

Here's another way to look at it. Let's say you value honesty, so you always tell the truth. That's your personal choice based on your values. But morals come into play when you think about the larger rule that lying is generally considered wrong by most people in your community or culture. In this case, your personal value of honesty lines up nicely with the broader moral belief that lying is wrong.

The way that we develop morals and values is very similar. Piaget's Theory of Moral Development claims that three things influence our development: rules, moral responsibility, and justice. Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development claims that by the time we are 20 years old, our values and morals are pretty well established.

Why It Matters to Know the Difference

Understanding the difference between values and morals helps you navigate life more smoothly. Your values help you make personal choices that make you happy and proud of who you are. Knowing the morals of your community or culture helps you get along with others and be a good citizen.

Sometimes, your values and morals might bump heads. For instance, you might value individual freedom but live in a community where certain behaviors are considered morally wrong. Knowing the difference can help you make decisions that honor both your personal beliefs and the rules of the community you live in.

So, while values and morals are closely related, they're not the same thing. Your values are your personal guide, while morals are the broader rules set by your community. Both are super important and understanding how they work together can help you live a life that's both happy and harmonious.

Individual vs. Collective Values

group of people holding hands in a circle

When it comes to values, it's not just a "me, myself, and I" thing. While each of us has our own set of personal values that guide our choices, we're also part of bigger groups—like families, schools, and countries—that have their own sets of values. These bigger sets of values are called "collective values." So, what's the difference between individual and collective values, and how do they work together? Let's dive in and find out!

What are Individual Values?

Think of individual values as your personal playlist of favorite songs. This playlist includes the tunes—or values—that resonate with you the most. These are the things that make your heart beat faster and guide your actions. It could be stuff like courage, friendship, or creativity. For example, if you value hard work, you might be the kind of person who always gives 100% in everything you do, whether it's a school project or a weekend hobby.

Your individual values are super personal. They're shaped by your experiences, the people you hang out with, and what you believe deep down is important. Just like you wouldn't want anyone messing with your favorite playlist, your individual values are yours and yours alone.

What are Collective Values?

Collective values, on the other hand, are like the top charts of music that a lot of people love. These are values that a group of people agree are important, whether that group is your family, your school, or even your whole country. For instance, many schools value respect and teamwork, which is why they teach you to respect your teachers and work well in groups.

But collective values aren't just about rules or being polite. They help create a sense of belonging and unity. Imagine a big family dinner where everyone values spending quality time together. Those shared values make the meal special and help everyone feel like they're part of something bigger.

The Difference

Here's the big difference: individual values are all about you, and collective values are all about the group. Your individual values are like a selfie—unique and personal. Collective values are more like a group photo, where everyone is part of the picture.

But sometimes there can be a bit of tension between the two. Let's say your family has a Sunday dinner tradition, but you value personal time to read or draw. That's where individual and collective values might clash a bit. The cool thing is, understanding the difference can help you find a balance, like maybe reading before dinner or drawing after everyone has left.

The Interaction Between Them

Guess what? Individual and collective values are not enemies; they can actually be best friends sometimes. Your personal values can influence the group, and the group's values can influence you. For example, if you bring your value of environmental care into your family, you might get everyone recycling or saving water. At the same time, being part of a sports team that values teamwork can help you learn to be a better friend.

In fact, a lot of times our individual values are shaped by the collective values of the groups we're part of. It's like a dance where sometimes you lead, and sometimes you follow, but you're both part of the same rhythm.

Debates Around Personal Values

When we talk about values, you might think it's all straightforward—just decide what's important to you, and you're good to go, right? Well, not so fast! People have different opinions about what values are, where they come from, and even if everyone should have the same ones. Let's look at some of the big debates around this topic.

Nature vs. Nurture

One of the oldest debates in the book is "nature versus nurture." It's like asking, "Were you born loving pizza, or did you learn to love it because everyone around you does?" Some people think our values are built into us from the moment we're born—that it's all about "nature." Others believe our environment, or "nurture," plays a bigger role.

The truth is, it's probably a mix of both. You might be naturally inclined to be curious, but going to a school that encourages asking questions can make that part of you even stronger.

Universal Values vs. Cultural Values

Another hot topic is whether some values are universal—meaning everyone, everywhere should have them—or if values can change depending on your culture. For instance, freedom might be a big deal in one country but less important in another where community harmony is valued more.

This debate can get really tricky when people from different cultures interact. What if something you value, like individual success, is seen differently in another culture that values group harmony? There's no easy answer, but it's important to be open to understanding how different values can be.

Changing Values Over Time

Here's a question for you: Do values change over time, or are they set in stone? Some people think that once you have a set of values, they stick with you for life. Others argue that as you grow and experience new things, your values can shift.

Think about it. As a kid, maybe you valued playtime above all else. But as you grow up, other things like career success or family might take the top spots on your list. It's a debate without a clear answer, but it's good to know that it's okay for your values to evolve as you do.

The Role of Society

Last but not least, there's a debate about how much society should influence our personal values. Should there be a set list of "good" values that everyone should follow? Or should each person be free to choose their own path?

It's a big question, especially when you think about things like laws or school rules. Some people think that having shared values makes a society stronger. Others worry that trying to make everyone have the same values takes away personal freedom.

Examples of Personal Values

Alright, so we've talked a lot about what values are, where they might come from, and even some debates around them. Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty: What are some examples of personal values? Whether you're just starting to think about your own values or looking to understand others better, here's a handy list to get you thinking.

Values That Start With A

Accountability

Taking responsibility for your actions and owning up to your mistakes or successes.

Achievement

Striving to accomplish goals and enjoying the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.

Adaptability

Being able to adjust to new conditions or environments smoothly.

Adventure

Seeking and enjoying new experiences, even if they bring some level of risk or uncertainty.

Affection

Valuing close relationships and showing care and love toward others.

Altruism

Putting others' needs before your own, and acting to benefit society at large.

Ambition

Having a strong desire for success, achievement, or distinction in something that requires dedication and hard work.

Assertiveness

Standing up for your beliefs and values, and expressing your thoughts, feelings, or needs directly.

Authenticity

Being genuine and true to your own character and values.

Autonomy

Desiring independence and the freedom to make your own choices.

Values That Start With B

Balance

Seeking equilibrium between different aspects of life such as work, family, and health.

Beauty

Appreciating aesthetics, symmetry, or grace in both natural and man-made environments.

Belonging

Desiring a sense of community and relationship with others; valuing being part of a group or family.

Benevolence

Wishing well for others and helping them achieve what they desire.

Boldness

Daring to take risks, venture into the unknown, or challenge the status quo.

Bravery

Facing difficult situations with courage and resolve.

Values That Start With C

artist's loft

Calmness

Valuing tranquility and quiet, and avoiding unnecessary stress or drama.

Capability

Having the skills and abilities needed to achieve goals or handle certain situations.

Carefulness

Taking caution in actions and decisions to avoid unnecessary risks or harm.

Challenge

Taking on difficult tasks as a way to grow and develop.

Charity

Giving help or resources to those in need, without expecting anything in return.

Cheerfulness

Maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude, even in difficult situations.

Clarity

Valuing clear communication and understanding in both thought and expression.

Cleanliness

Keeping oneself and one's environment neat and orderly.

Collaboration

Believing that working together as a team often yields better results than working alone.

Commitment

Dedicating oneself to a cause, relationship, or goal.

Compassion

Feeling empathy towards others and wanting to help those in need.

Competence

Having the skills and abilities to perform tasks well.

Confidence

Believing in one's own abilities and making decisions without undue hesitation.

Consistency

Valuing stability and uniformity in actions and decisions.

Contentment

Being satisfied with what you have and where you are in life.

Contribution

Wanting to make a positive impact on other people or a particular situation.

Cooperation

Working well with others, often putting the group’s needs ahead of your own.

Courage

Facing fears or difficulties with grace and resolve.

Courtesy

Being polite and respectful toward others.

Creativity

Valuing innovative thinking and the creation of new ideas or things.

Curiosity

Having a strong desire to learn or know more about something or someone.

Values That Start With D

Decisiveness

Being able to make decisions quickly and effectively.

Dedication

Committing to a task or cause for the long haul.

Democracy

Valuing the right of each individual in a group to have a say in decisions that affect them.

Dependability

Being reliable and trustworthy in all your endeavors.

Determination

Staying focused on a task and seeing it through to completion.

Devotion

Dedicating time and energy to a person, cause, or belief.

Diligence

Working hard and staying focused to achieve what needs to be done.

Discipline

Having self-control and the ability to stick with difficult tasks.

Diversity

Valuing the inclusion of people from all backgrounds and beliefs.

Drive

Having an internal motivation that propels you to achieve.

Duty

Feeling a moral or ethical obligation to perform certain actions.

Values That Start With E

Eagerness

Having a keen interest or intense desire to do or achieve something.

Education

Valuing the acquisition of knowledge and skills.

Efficiency

Completing tasks in the most effective way without wasting time or effort.

Empathy

Being able to understand and share the feelings of others.

Empowerment

Encouraging and allowing others to take control of their own destiny or situation.

Endurance

Having the stamina to withstand stress or hardship.

Equality

Believing everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.

Excellence

Doing the best possible job with the resources available.

Excitement

Valuing the thrill and exhilaration of new experiences.

Exploration

Being eager to explore new places, try new things, and learn.

Values That Start With F

Fairness

Treating people equally without favoritism or discrimination.

Faith

Having a strong belief in something, especially without evidence or proof.

Faithfulness

Staying true to someone or something over time.

Family

Valuing familial relationships and spending quality time with family members.

Flexibility

Being able to adapt to new situations as they arise.

Forgiveness

Being able to forgive those who have wronged you.

Fortitude

Having mental and emotional strength to endure hardship.

Freedom

Valuing the ability to think or act without outside constraint.

Friendliness

Being approachable and easy to get along with.

Friendship

Valuing a close relationship based on mutual trust and affection.

Frugality

Being economical and avoiding waste, often particularly with resources like money or time.

Values That Start With G

Generosity

Willing to give freely, whether it's time, money, or some other resource.

Grace

Handling situations with a sense of elegance or dignity.

Gratitude

Being thankful for what you have.

Grit

Having the courage and resolve to accomplish long-term goals.

Growth

Seeking personal development, whether it's emotional, mental, or physical.

Values That Start With H

Happiness

Valuing your own happiness and working to achieve it.

Harmony

Valuing peace and a balanced, calm lifestyle.

Health

Prioritizing your own well-being, both physically and mentally.

Honesty

Valuing the truth and striving to be truthful in all interactions.

Honor

Having a strong moral compass and maintaining your integrity.

Hope

Believing that something good will happen, even in difficult times.

Humility

Not viewing oneself as more special or better than others.

Humor

Appreciating and valuing laughter and joy.

Values That Start With I

Idealism

Pursuing high goals and ideals, even if they are difficult to achieve.

Imagination

Valuing creativity and the ability to imagine new possibilities.

Independence

Being able to take care of yourself without relying too much on others.

Individuality

Valuing your own unique traits and not conforming solely to social norms.

Innovation

Valuing new ideas and seeking novel solutions to problems.

Integrity

Having strong moral principles and being honest and fair.

Intelligence

Valuing intellectual capabilities and pursuits.

Intuition

Trusting your own instincts and gut feelings.

Values That Start With J

saxophone

Jazziness

For those who appreciate the arts or creativity, jazziness could be a value. This would signify an appreciation for spontaneity, improvisation, and the blending of different styles or cultures.

Joy

Finding happiness and delight in your surroundings and experiences.

Journey

Valuing the process or journey over the destination. This might mean that you appreciate the learning and experiences that come with pursuing a goal, rather than just the end result.

Joviality

Valuing good humor and cheerfulness. If you appreciate joviality, you likely try to keep a positive outlook and bring a sense of light-heartedness to interactions with others.

Judiciousness

Valuing the ability to make sensible and wise decisions, especially in difficult situations. If you hold judiciousness as a value, you likely think things through carefully and weigh the pros and cons before taking action.

Judgement-Free

Valuing a non-judgmental approach towards others. This could mean providing a safe space for people to express themselves without fear of harsh criticism.

Justice

Valuing fairness and ensuring everyone is treated equally.

Juvenility

Valuing the simplicity and wonder associated with childhood. This doesn't mean you're immature; instead, you appreciate the straightforward joy and curiosity often seen in younger individuals.

Juxtaposition

Appreciating the value of contrast or opposition, whether in ideas, design, or in other forms. You might find depth and meaning in contrasting experiences or perspectives.

Values That Start With K

Karma

Believing in cause and effect, where your actions, good or bad, will return to you in some form. If you value karma, you aim to do good in the world, believing that it will eventually come back to you.

Keenness

Being intensely interested or eager about something. Whether it's a hobby, a subject matter, or a social cause, valuing keenness means you're excited to dive deep and learn as much as you can.

Keystones

Valuing the fundamental principles or elements that everything else depends upon. This could apply to a belief system, a business model, or even a personal regimen that you think serves as a foundation for success.

Kindness

Being considerate, generous, and friendly to others.

Kinship

Valuing family ties and friendships as an essential part of human life. If you value kinship, the bonds you share with those close to you are likely among your most cherished relationships.

Knightliness

Valuing the qualities of a medieval knight, like chivalry, courtesy, and bravery. This might seem a bit old-fashioned, but if you value knightliness, you appreciate acts of courage and honor in daily life.

Knowledge

Valuing the acquisition and application of information.

Kudos

Placing importance on praise and honor received from others. If this is a value for you, you likely work hard to achieve things that you and others can be proud of.

Values That Start With L

Leadership

Having the ability to lead and inspire others.

Learning

Pursuing knowledge and personal growth.

Listening

Being able to pay close attention to what others are saying and understand them.

Logic

Valuing reason and clear, sound reasoning.

Love

Valuing deep, emotional connections with others.

Loyalty

Being faithful to those you have commitments to.

Values That Start With M

Mastery

Becoming highly skilled or proficient in certain areas.

Maturity

Having well-developed emotional and intellectual capabilities.

Meaning

Seeking a sense of purpose or significance in life.

Meditation

Valuing quiet reflection and mental clarity.

Mindfulness

Being fully aware and present in the moment.

Moderation

Avoiding extremes and finding a balanced, middle ground.

Motivation

Having the desire and will to accomplish specific goals.

Values That Start With N

Naturalism

Valuing what's natural or grounded in nature. This can extend from preferring natural foods and medicines to enjoying spending time outdoors.

Navigability

Valuing the ability to navigate through life's challenges effectively. If this is a value for you, you're likely good at problem-solving and appreciate others who can find their way through complicated situations.

Neighborliness

Valuing a sense of community and good relations with the people who live near you. If you value neighborliness, you likely try to be friendly and helpful to those around you.

Neutrality

Valuing impartiality and objectivity, especially in conflicts or debates. If you value neutrality, you probably strive to look at issues from multiple angles before forming an opinion.

Nobility

Valuing high moral qualities such as honesty, courage, and generosity. If you value nobility, you strive to act in a manner that is honorable and virtuous.

Nonchalance

Valuing a calm and composed demeanor, especially in stressful situations. If you value nonchalance, you likely handle stress well and don’t easily get ruffled.

Non-Conformity

The act of not following conventional rules, beliefs, or practices. If you value non-conformity, you're probably unafraid to go against the grain and forge your own path.

Nostalgia

Valuing memories and the feelings they evoke. While some people look always to the future, if you value nostalgia, you find comfort and guidance in reminiscing about the past.

Notoriety

Valuing recognition from others, even if it's not always in a positive light. This could mean you're driven to be well-known or leave a lasting impression.

Novelty

Valuing new experiences, ideas, or innovations. If novelty is a value for you, you might be easily bored by routine and constantly seek out the new and exciting.

Nuance

Appreciating the subtle or complex differences in situations, people, or issues. If nuance is important to you, you value a deeper or more sophisticated understanding of things.

Nurturing

Taking care of others and helping them grow.

Values That Start With O

Open-mindedness

Being willing to consider different ideas or opinions.

Optimism

Having a positive outlook on life and expecting the best possible outcome.

Organization

Keeping your life and environment neat and in order.

Originality

Valuing unique ideas and actions over conforming to the norm.

Values That Start With P

children's playground

Passion

Having intense enthusiasm or desire for something or someone.

Patience

Being able to wait calmly without getting frustrated.

Peace

Valuing a state of tranquility and absence of conflict.

Perseverance

Continuing to try, even when things are tough.

Perspective

Being able to see things from different points of view.

Philanthropy

Donating resources or effort to help others, without expecting anything in return.

Playfulness

Valuing humor, fun, and games as a way to relax and connect with others.

Pleasure

Seeking and valuing enjoyable experiences.

Positivity

Maintaining a hopeful and optimistic attitude.

Practicality

Valuing what is usable and sensible over what is abstract.

Preparedness

Making sure you're ready for any situation that might arise.

Pride

Taking satisfaction in your achievements and capabilities.

Privacy

Valuing your personal space and keeping certain things to yourself.

Progress

Seeking advancement and constructive change.

Prudence

Exercising careful judgment and caution.

Purpose

Having a reason for doing what you do, giving you a sense of direction.

Values That Start With Q

Quality

Pursuing excellence and high standards.

Quality Time

Valuing meaningful and fulfilling interactions with loved ones over just 'spending time' together. If this is a value for you, you prefer deeper conversations and shared experiences that contribute to closer relationships.

Quantifiability

Valuing things that can be measured or quantified. This could be important for people who love data, statistics, and concrete results.

Quest for Knowledge

Valuing the journey toward learning and self-discovery. This goes beyond just 'knowledge' to emphasize the ongoing process and adventure of learning.

Quick-Wittedness

Valuing the ability to think and respond quickly, especially in challenging or unexpected situations. If you value quick-wittedness, you likely appreciate humor, clever conversation, and resourceful problem-solving.

Quietude

Valuing peace, quiet, and tranquility. If quietude is important to you, you probably enjoy moments of solitude and places that offer a break from noise and hustle.

Quintessence

Valuing the purest and most essential aspects of life, whether that's love, happiness, or some other fundamental quality. If you value quintessence, you likely strive for the "real deal" in your experiences and relationships.

Quirkiness

Appreciating uniqueness and individuality, even if it's unconventional. If quirkiness is a value for you, you probably love things that stand out from the norm, whether it's art, people, or experiences.

Quorum

Valuing the principle of collective agreement or consensus, especially in a decision-making process. If quorum is a value for you, you believe that decisions should be made collectively with a minimum number of participants to ensure fairness and representation.

Quotability

Appreciating wit, wisdom, or insight that's worth quoting. If this is a value for you, you love those "a-ha" moments when someone says something so true or clever that it's worth remembering and repeating.

Values That Start With R

Reason

Using logical thinking to make decisions and understand things.

Recognition

Valuing acknowledgment and appreciation from others.

Rejuvenation

Valuing the time to rest and restore your energy.

Reliability

Being dependable and keeping your promises.

Resilience

Recovering quickly from difficulties and setbacks.

Respect

Treating others with dignity and understanding their value.

Responsibility

Being accountable for your actions and their consequences.

Values That Start With S

Security

Valuing safety and stability in your life.

Self-Actualization

Realizing your potential and becoming the best version of yourself.

Self-Care

Taking time to look after your own well-being.

Self-Control

Being able to regulate your emotions and actions.

Self-Esteem

Having confidence in your own worth or abilities.

Self-Expression

Freely expressing your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs.

Self-Improvement

Constantly looking for ways to improve and become better.

Self-Reliance

Relying on your own skills and efforts to achieve things.

Sensitivity

Being aware of and understanding the feelings of yourself and others.

Service

Providing help or beneficial actions to others.

Simplicity

Valuing a lifestyle free of unnecessary complexities.

Sincerity

Being open and truthful in your dealings with others.

Skillfulness

Having dexterity or talent in a particular area.

Solidarity

Standing together with others for a common cause or value.

Spirituality

Valuing a connection to something greater than oneself.

Stability

Valuing consistency and steadiness in your life or environment.

Stewardship

Taking good care of resources or privileges that are entrusted to you.

Strength

Having physical, emotional, or intellectual power or vigor.

Success

Achieving goals and fulfilling your intentions.

Support

Offering help or emotional support to others.

Sustainability

Valuing long-term well-being over short-term gains, often particularly in the context of environmental care.

Values That Start With T

Teamwork

Working cooperatively with others to achieve a common goal.

Thoughtfulness

Paying attention to details that show you care.

Tolerance

Being accepting of others, even when they are different from you.

Tradition

Valuing customs, rituals, and beliefs passed down through generations.

Transparency

Being open and honest in your interactions.

Trust

Having faith in someone or something.

Values That Start With U

Understanding

Taking the time to know something or someone in depth.

Unity

Feeling a sense of togetherness or oneness with others.

Values That Start With V

Valor

Showing courage when facing difficulties.

Vision

Being able to plan for the future with imagination and wisdom.

Values That Start With W

Wisdom

Having good judgment based on knowledge and experience.

Wonder

Appreciating the beauty and vastness of life and the universe.

Work-Life Balance

Balancing career demands with personal and family needs.

Values That Start With X

Xeniality

Valuing the act of being hospitable, especially to strangers or guests. In a world that sometimes feels disconnected or hostile, xeniality places importance on kindness and warm-heartedness toward those we may not know well.

Xeriscaping

This might seem specific, but in an age of environmental concern, valuing xeriscaping could mean you prioritize water conservation and sustainable gardening. You might live in an area where water is scarce, or you might simply want to reduce your environmental impact.

Values That Start With Y

Youthfulness

Valuing youthfulness doesn't mean you're trying to stay forever young; rather, you value the qualities often associated with youth—like wonder, enthusiasm, curiosity, and an adventurous spirit.

Yielding

This value speaks to the importance of compromise and letting go of your ego for the benefit of a relationship or group outcome. It doesn't mean you should give up on everything you believe in, but that you understand the importance of give-and-take.

Values That Start With Z

Zeal

Approaching life with excitement and energy.

Reference this article:

Practical Psychology. (2023, September). 209+ Personal Values A-Z (Definition + Examples). Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/personal-values-examples/.

About The Author

Photo of author