Values clarification — identifying what matters most to you at the deepest level — is a cornerstone of ACT therapy for breadcrumbing and provides direction when breadcrumbing removes other navigational tools.
Why Values Matter for Breadcrumbing
Breadcrumbing often disconnects us from our values through avoidance, withdrawal, and reduced capacity. Reconnecting with values provides:
- Direction when breadcrumbing has eliminated other motivation
- Meaning that persists even through difficult breadcrumbing periods
- A basis for action independent of how breadcrumbing makes you feel
Clarifying Your Values with Breadcrumbing
Ask yourself: 'If my breadcrumbing 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 Breadcrumbing
ACT therapy teaches: act according to values even when breadcrumbing is present. Small values-aligned actions, despite breadcrumbing, are more sustainable than waiting for breadcrumbing to lift first.