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