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