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