Understanding Personal Values: A Guide for Migrant Women of Color

Hey there! Let’s talk about something really important but sometimes a bit confusing: personal values. You see, while the concept of 'values' is inherently valid across cultures, it has a significant amount of importance in individualistic cultures vs collectivist cultures. By that I mean, that in individualistic cultures the emphasis is on the self first, and then everything / everyone else while in collectivist cultures it is the opposite.

[ Note : this does not mean that either culture is better or worse off than the other, this just means that the difference in the nature of the cultures renders the meaning of 'values' differently]

So, what are personal values? Think of them as the deeply held beliefs and principles that guide everything we do. They’re like our inner compass, helping us decide what’s important in our lives and how we want to act. These values shape our priorities, influence our relationships, and essentially define who we are.

For you, as a migrant woman of color, understanding your personal values can be incredibly empowering. I know it can be challenging too, given the many layers of your experiences and identity. But trust me, getting clear on what you value is worth the effort.

But why are values important, Richa?

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I care so much about my values?” Well, let me tell you, values are like your roadmap in life. They give you a sense of direction and purpose.

When you know what you stand for, making decisions becomes a lot easier.

It’s like having a clear path through life’s maze.

When your actions align with your values, you feel more fulfilled and authentic. It’s like everything just clicks into place, and you feel more “you.” On the flip side, if you’re doing things that go against your values, you might feel uneasy, conflicted, or even unhappy. It’s like having a constant internal tug-of-war, and that’s not fun for anyone.

So, let’s break it down a bit more:

• Values guide your behavior: They influence how you act and react in different situations.

• Values shape your decisions: They help you choose what’s right for you, from big life choices to everyday decisions.

• Values define your priorities: They show you what’s most important in your life, whether it’s family, career, honesty, or something else entirely.

For example, if you value family above all else, you’ll make decisions that prioritize spending time with loved ones. If honesty is a core value, you’ll strive to be truthful in your interactions, even when it’s tough.

Understanding and embracing your personal values can help you navigate the complexities of your unique journey as a migrant woman of color. It’s about finding what truly matters to you and letting that guide your way.

"Your words become your actions, Your actions become your habits, Your habits become your values, Your values become your destiny.” - Mahatma Gandhi

Remember, this is a journey. It’s okay if it takes time to figure out your values and how they fit into your life. Start with small steps, reflect on your experiences, and gradually, you’ll get a clearer picture of what drives you. And once you do, you’ll feel more grounded and confident in who you are and the decisions you make.

I have a mini guide with 6 tips to help you find your personal 'value' system, if you'd like it please click here.

Connect with me to start your own alignment journey, I can't wait to see you in the next blog piece