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