Values clarification — identifying what matters most to you at the deepest level — is a cornerstone of ACT therapy for behavioral economics and provides direction when behavioral economics removes other navigational tools.
Why Values Matter for Behavioral Economics
Behavioral Economics often disconnects us from our values through avoidance, withdrawal, and reduced capacity. Reconnecting with values provides:
- Direction when behavioral economics has eliminated other motivation
- Meaning that persists even through difficult behavioral economics periods
- A basis for action independent of how behavioral economics makes you feel
Clarifying Your Values with Behavioral Economics
Ask yourself: 'If my behavioral economics were less present, what would I be doing more of? What kind of person would I be?'
Values are not goals (achievable and done) but ongoing directions: being a present parent, creating beauty, contributing to others.
Values-Based Action in Behavioral Economics
ACT therapy teaches: act according to values even when behavioral economics is present. Small values-aligned actions, despite behavioral economics, are more sustainable than waiting for behavioral economics to lift first.