Living Our Values is More Important Than Ever

What does it mean to “live your values”?

A frequent message from Indivisible's founders is to “live our values” and bring forward the changes we want to see in the world. This includes the idea of “get in where you fit in” as a volunteering standard and even encourages the axiom of “don't be a jerk.” It resonates with us loudly and guides our thinking for navigating in these chaotic spaces, even here in Chico.

Simply put, to "live your values" means to consistently align your actions, choices, and behaviors with your core beliefs and principles. It’s about being true to yourself and what you stand for, not just in major life decisions but in everyday interactions.

Your values act as a moral compass, guiding you toward a life that feels authentic and purposeful. When we live by our values, we're making decisions based on what's important to us, rather than on external pressure or expectations. This practice leads to a greater sense of fulfillment and integrity because our life reflects who we truly are.

Key Aspects of Living Your Values

Self-Awareness 

First, you have to know what your values are. This involves self-reflection to identify the principles that are most important to you, such as honesty, kindness, integrity, courage, or creativity. Once identified, these values become the foundation for all your choices.

Decision-Making

Your values serve as a filter for your decisions. When faced with a choice, whether it's a career move, a conflict with a friend, or how to spend your time, you can ask yourself, "Does this choice align with my values?" 

For example, if honesty is a core value, you’ll choose to be truthful even when it's difficult.

Consistency

Living your values requires consistency. It’s not about acting on your values only when it’s convenient but upholding them in all areas of your life—at work, in relationships, and in your personal time. This consistency builds self-trust and confidence, as you know you can rely on your own moral code.

What does it look like to “live your values” in civic engagement and activism?

Living your values in civic engagement and activism means you act on your principles to create positive change in your community and beyond. It's about translating what you believe into tangible actions that affect society.

Examples of Value-Based Civic Actions

1. If you value equality and social justice:

• You might volunteer for a voter registration drive in underrepresented communities to ensure everyone's voice is heard.

• You could organize or participate in a protest against discriminatory policies.

•  You might support or donate to organizations that advocate for civil rights.

  
  

2. If you value environmental stewardship:

• You might participate in local park cleanups or advocate for better recycling programs in your town.

• You could attend a city council meeting to speak in favor of a new bike lane or public transportation initiatives.

• You might write to your elected officials to support legislation that protects natural resources.

3. If you value community and compassion:

• You might volunteer at a local food bank or homeless shelter.

• You could organize a neighborhood watch program to increase safety and connection among residents.

• You might start a community garden to provide fresh produce and bring people together.

Why does it matter?

These actions aren't just one-time events; they are consistent efforts that demonstrate a commitment to your core values. All of these ideas, when brought to life in our community, have the positive impact - very locally - of helping not only ourselves but our neighbors’ lives.

A little good causes a little more good in a domino effect. A little light in a dark corner helps people see that the world isn't as small as it feels sometimes, maybe even shows us that we have room to exist. 

We believe courage is contagious. Good people doing good things will help encourage a better neighborhood, a better city, a better state, and eventually, maybe, a better world. It starts locally. It starts with us. That's why we encourage each other, every day, to live our values, and bring forward the things we think are important where we live. 

There's no one else like you. We all need to help preserve and encourage that uniqueness as we stand together.