The "Values Alignment" Checklist: Are You Chasing the Right Goals?

The “Values Alignment” Checklist: Are You Chasing the Right Goals?

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You’ve set big goals. You’re working hard to hit them. But here’s the million-dollar question: Are they the right goals for you?

Too often, entrepreneurs and executives chase goals that look impressive on paper but feel empty in reality. Why? Because those goals don’t align with their core values. It’s like climbing a mountain only to realize you were on the wrong one.

If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or drained by your goals, this is for you. The “Values Alignment” Checklist is a powerful tool to ensure your goals aren’t just about growth—but growth in the right direction. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Define Your Core Values

Before you can assess your goals, you need to identify what matters most to you. Your values are your internal compass—the non-negotiables that drive how you live, lead, and succeed.

To uncover your values, ask yourself:

  • What do I stand for? (e.g., integrity, innovation, creativity, freedom)
  • What drives me in my work and life? (e.g., impact, security, adventure, connection)
  • When do I feel most proud, fulfilled, or energized? What was I doing?

Take 5–10 minutes to write down 5–7 core values. For example:

  • Integrity
  • Growth
  • Freedom
  • Impact
  • Connection

Your values are your filter. If your goals don’t align with them, you’re climbing the wrong mountain.

Step 2: List Your Current Goals

Now, write down the goals you’re chasing—both personally and professionally. Be specific:

  • “Grow my business to $1M in annual revenue.”
  • “Spend more time with my family this year.”
  • “Launch a new product by Q3.”
  • “Improve my health and fitness.”

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uninspired by your goals, don’t judge yourself. This exercise is about clarity, not criticism.

Step 3: Assess Each Goal Using the Values Alignment Checklist

For each goal, ask yourself these five questions:

  1. Does this goal reflect my core values?
  2. Is this goal truly mine, or is it influenced by someone else’s expectations?
  3. Will achieving this goal make me feel fulfilled, or just busy?
  4. Does this goal align with the life I want to build long-term?
  5. Am I excited by this goal, even if it’s challenging?

Example:

  • Goal: “Grow my business to $1M this year.” Value Alignment Check: Core Value: Freedom—Yes, because $1M in revenue will allow me to delegate more and create space for other priorities. Ownership: Yes, this goal excites me; it’s not just about external validation. Fulfillment: Yes, achieving this feels meaningful because it represents sustainable growth.

If a goal doesn’t align with your values, that’s okay. It’s a signal to revisit, adjust, or replace it with something more meaningful.

Step 4: Adjust, Realign, or Let Go

Now that you’ve evaluated your goals, it’s time to act:

  1. Realign Misaligned Goals: Adjust goals to better fit your values.
  2. Let Go of Goals That Don’t Serve You: If a goal doesn’t align, consider letting it go. Saying “no” to the wrong goals makes space for the right ones.
  3. Create New Aligned Goals: If you identify gaps, set goals that reflect your values and energize you.

Letting go of misaligned goals is not failure—it’s clarity. You’re choosing to focus on what really matters.

Step 5: Revisit Regularly

Values and priorities shift as you grow. What mattered to you five years ago might not resonate today. That’s why you should revisit your goals and values regularly:

  • Quarterly Check-In: Are my goals still aligned with my core values?
  • Big Decisions: Use the checklist to evaluate new opportunities or pivots.

Think of this as a reset button. It keeps you on track toward a life and career that feels authentic, fulfilling, and aligned.

Why This Works

The “Values Alignment” Checklist works because it removes the noise and external pressure. It forces you to:

  1. Clarify what truly matters to you.
  2. Filter out goals that look good on paper but feel hollow in reality.
  3. Focus your energy on challenges and opportunities that align with your purpose.

Aligned goals don’t just look good—they feel right. And that’s where real growth happens.

Your Action Step for Today

  1. Write down your top 3–5 goals.
  2. Run each one through the Values Alignment Checklist: Does this goal reflect my values? Is it mine, or is it driven by external expectations? Will it fulfill me, not just keep me busy?
  3. Adjust, realign, or let go of anything that doesn’t pass the test.

What’s Next?

When you pursue goals that align with your values, you’re not just chasing success—you’re creating a life that feels meaningful and intentional.

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