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