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