How to conduct a ‘values inventory’—and why you should

Making tough career choices often feels like navigating a maze without a map. Most people find themselves stuck at the crossroads, unable to move forward. The issue isn't usually a lack of information but rather a clash of values. To uncover these hidden conflicts, one effective method is conducting a "values inventory." This exercise involves listing out the principles that guide a person's decisions, such as integrity, family, service, and curiosity.

However, the real insight comes when the focus shifts to the values we might be hesitant to admit we have—what experts call "shadow values." Shadow values include recognition, status, financial security, authority, competition, and stability. These are not inherently negative, as what one person considers a shadow value, another might cherish as a guiding principle.

The challenge arises when we try to hide these values, believing they make us less authentic. Take the case of a physician who valued family, compassion, integrity, and service. When confronted with the idea of shadow values, she initially recoiled at the suggestion of recognition. After some reflection, she admitted that her willingness to volunteer for high-profile committees and her tendency to overreact to praise both stemmed from a desire for recognition.

This revelation shed light on a previously hidden motivation that explained much of her behavior. The key takeaway is that our values don't exist in a vacuum. They evolve based on our life experiences, such as growing up in financial insecurity or receiving praise for achievement. It's not about eliminating these values but questioning whether they continue to serve us today.

By engaging in a values inventory, leaders can move beyond judgment and instead foster curiosity. Instead of fixating on why a particular value holds sway, one can explore its origins and whether it still aligns with current goals. This introspective approach transforms self-awareness from a means of self-criticism into an opportunity for growth.

When faced with a daunting decision, the focus should shift from "What's the right choice?" to "What motivations am I unwilling to admit are influencing this choice?" Recognizing these underlying motivations may not alter the available options, but it invariably changes how we evaluate them. Therefore, conducting a values inventory is not merely a tool for introspection; it's a pathway to making decisions that are not only informed but also deeply aligned with who we are and what truly matters to us.