In Chapter 3 of our textbook, Sukiennik and Raufman (2016) introduced values and explained several
ways to help you identify the values you hold dear. For example, Sukiennik and Raufman (2016)
encouraged you to explore the things that you cherish and note them because this will reveal
something about what you value. They also suggested you examine the positions and opinions you’re
willing to state publicly as a way to uncover the values that are guiding and influencing your behavior.
Another way is to explore your accomplishments and examine how these life experiences reflect the
things you regard as important.
Below are the various approaches you can take to clarify your values. Read about each of these
approaches as they are explained further by Sukiennik and Raufman (2016) on pages 40 and 42.
Instructions: To complete the assignment, begin by choosing one of the approaches below to
identify your values. Follow the steps of the approach. When you have identified three to five values
that you genuinely hold, answer the questions below using the APA template in Files. Submit your
assignment by the assignment deadline.
The Values Grid (see Sukinnik and Raufman, 2016, p. 40)
1. Record at least five of your accomplishments.
2. Then, beside each accomplishment, write down a few values that are reflected in each
accomplishment.
3. Finally, you will have several values listed. Identify the five values common among your
accomplishments.
OR
Explore Your Values (see Sukinnik and Raufman, 2016, p. 42)
1. In this approach, you can begin by listing activities you enjoy. You might also answer
exploratory questions, such as “what would you do with unlimited funds?”
2. Provide lengthy responses to these questions.
3. Then, review the responses you provided with the intention of identifying the values reflected in
your responses.
OR
Success Strategies Values (see Sukinnik and Raufman, 2016, p. 42)
1. Record 5–10 decisions you made in the previous week, big and small.
2. Review the decisions. More specifically, look for patterns in the choices you made throughout
the week.
3. Finally, evaluate whether the decisions you made align with what you say you value.
Questions
Describe the approach you took in identifying your three to five values. Which approach did you
choose from the list above, and how did you use the approach to identify your values (1–2
paragraphs)?
What values did you identify, and what does each value mean to you exactly (1–2 paragraphs that
includes the values you identified along with personally meaningful definitions in your own words)?
Sukinennik and Raufman (2016) suggest that you consider how you will use your values. They ask
the question “In the service of what need, will you put your values to work?” (p. 47). Express your
values in the form of a mission statement (1–2 sentences that are goal-oriented and that include the
values listed above).