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Uncover Your Unique Values with Our FREE Core Values Quiz.

Identify Your Values with Our Core Values Quiz

(For Curious Individuals)

Take the First Step Towards Reducing Stress, Increasing Your Well-being, and Living a More Authentic Life Filled with Purpose. Identify Your Unique Values with Our FREE Core Values Quiz Self-Assessment. Join 9,000+ people who have discovered their core values!

Find Out What My Values Are…
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MaryBeth Hyland Core Values Quiz

By MaryBeth Hyland – Values Expert, Bestselling Author of Permission to Be Human, and Founder of SparkVision. MaryBeth’s values expertise has been featured in The Washington Post, The Huffington Post, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, NBC, CBS, FOX, and other prominent media outlets. She has conducted values work with notable clients, including Netflix, Accenture, Johns Hopkins, Lockheed Martin, UPS, Fortune Magazine, and Tyson Foods, among others.

Lisa Schroeder Core Values Testimonial

MaryBeth's wisdom, intuitive gifts and proven practices have changed my life. She has guided me on how to take on this life's journey, particularly in times of stress, and embrace what once seemed impossible."

- Lisa Schroeder, President, The Pittsburgh Foundation

IN THIS FREE CORE VALUES QUIZ SELF-ASSESSMENT, YOU WILL LEARN:

What Your Core Values Are

What Your Core Values Are

These are the values that drive you. The aspects of yourself that motivate you toward or away from different things.

What Your Aspirational Values

What Your Aspirational Values Are

These are the values that you wish drove you. These describe what you aspire to become.

What Your Values Are

What Your Values Are

These are the values that describe you but you are not driven by them.

Which Values Don't resonate with you

Which Values Don’t Resonate With You

These are the values that simply aren’t things that resonate with you personally and that’s OK.

When you know, own, and live your values, everyday is filled with purpose."

~ MaryBeth Hyland, Founder + Chief Visionary, SparkVision 

Find Out What My Values Are…
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Top 10 Benefits of Taking a Core Values Quiz

1. Gain clarity on what drives your decisions and behaviors, leading to a more aligned and authentic life.

2. Discover hidden aspects of yourself by identifying the values that shape your life.

3. Reduce stress and overwhelm by aligning your actions with your core values.

4. Increase self-awareness, helping you make decisions that resonate with your authentic self.

5. Build stronger, more authentic relationships by understanding and sharing your values.

6. Experience greater personal growth by regularly reassessing and realigning with your values.

7. Identify friction points in life where your values are being neglected, leading to more mindful choices.

8. Feel empowered to set clearer boundaries that honor your core beliefs and values.

9. Receive actionable insights, reflections, and guidance on the area of your life in which you want to align with your values the most.

10. Use the personalized values profile as a guide to stay true to what matters most to you.

"Every single day, every single action is ultimately a reflection or disconnection of your values."

- MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

Why Are Core Values Important?

Here is what the research tells us.

Psychological Well-Being

  • People report greater happiness and life satisfaction when they actively live according to their core values (Sheldon & Krieger, 2014; Tessier et al., 2021)

  • In one study, individuals who completed a four-week values-based intervention showed higher life satisfaction and more positive emotions than those who did not (Bojanowska et al., 2022)

  • Self-Esteem and Authenticity

  • Staying true to your core values cultivates a sense of authenticity and self-integrity, which has been linked to higher self-esteem and overall well-being (Sedikides et al., 2017)

  • Research on adolescents found that having an “authentic inner compass” of personal values is associated with greater positivity and psychological well-being (Russo-Netzer & Shoshani, 2020)

  • Resilience to Stress and Adversity

  • Even brief affirmations of personal values can buffer people against stress by reducing both psychological distress and the body’s stress responses (Creswell et al., 2005)

  • Taking actions guided by one’s values has been linked to stronger coping skills and resilience, helping individuals manage adversity more effectively (Southwick et al., 2016)

  • Motivation and Goal Achievement

  • Pursuing goals that reflect your core values boosts enthusiasm, confidence, and persistence in achieving them (Sheldon & Elliot, 1999)

  • Clarifying your personal values provides a sense of purpose and direction that fuels motivation toward accomplishing your goals (Ahn & Reeve, 2021)

  • Decision-Making Clarity

  • Core values serve as guiding principles that simplify decisions by highlighting what truly matters to you (Sagiv et al., 2017)

  • When your values are clear, it reduces uncertainty and conflict in tough choices, making decision-making easier (Gandal et al., 2005)

  • 60% of respondents who take our Core Values Quiz want to go deeper into their values.

    WHAT ACTUAL PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY ABOUT KNOWING THEIR VALUES

    “It's really important for me to know what matters to me. So that when I go into partnerships with either clients or co-creators, that I'm really clear if we're going to be a good match for each other. So that was really big for me, and I thought a lot about values. And if I ever have a question about whether or not something is a good fit for me. I always have those values to go back to.”

    ~ Adair Cates,

    CEO, First Lead You

    “I'm realizing now that the way that I relate to my values is how I build relationships, not just intimate ones, but at work with business partners, and the like. It also is allowed me to have a greater level of empathy. For humanity at large, I am a lover of the human experience. And so recognizing what my core values are, and realizing how similar we all are also able to now kind of pinpoint what other people's values are. And that has been really helpful, especially in the climate in which that we live in.”

    ~ Chenire Harrell-Carter,

    CEO, Memory Maker Inc.

    “This was incredibly enlightening to me in the sense that I have these core values and yet when I look at my calendar on my phone, some of them weren't exactly lining up and I am really looking forward to going forward and making those changes so that my values are reflected in my everyday life. And I just recommend it to anyone who wants to live out their purpose.”

    ~ Anna Snow,

    Community Manager, Yelp

    “It’s a great opportunity to just really delve a little bit deeper into yourself and be more self-aware of who you are. It allows you the opportunity to be more authentic in the world.”

    ~ Cory J. Anderson,

    Director, Venture for America

    “I knew that this disconnect that I was feeling in my business and uncertainty in where to go next and growing my business would be positively impacted by clarifying my values.”

    ~ Amanda Autry,
    Entrepreneur

    “There's something invigorating and completely life-changing when you understand what your values are.”

    ~ Veronica Hill,
    Workplace Culture Consultant

    If you're looking to consistently and intentionally build a life you love, I absolutely recommend MaryBeth’s Values Work.

    ~ Kait LeDonne,
    
    Personal Branding Expert and Professional Speaker

    I started doing values work because I felt as if I were completely out of touch with my soul and my heart and my mind and I have struggled for many years with finding my own joy and happiness. Now I know exactly where to find it within myself.

    Jeanne Mumford,
    Pathology Manager, Johns Hopkins

    The word 'authenticity' means so much more to me now. Before knowing and living my values, it seemed like a buzzword or something you'd just say. Now, I feel it. I aspire toward it. I am it.

    ~ Brian Kenny Pham,
    President at Break A Difference

    I’ve been recommending MaryBeth to friends, colleagues and companies who want to live more fully with grace and abundance. After experiencing the impact of her values work first-hand, I know that more people need to have this opportunity in their own lives.

    ~ Ebun Mesaiyete,
    
    Project Development Manager at InfraCredit

    Doing this core values work was hands down the single most important thing that I have done for my business thus far. It reminded me that a clear understanding of my “why” and core values are critical for aligning and growing my business. Most importantly, MaryBeth helped me develop a toolkit to have a plan to stay accountable to my core values and infuse them to every part of my life and business.

    Gina Richmond,
    
    CEO, Bloomtopia

    MaryBeth is on a mission to guide others on a mindful journey to be more authentic, whole, and empowered humans. MaryBeth makes that possible through her guidance in assisting us in knowing, owning, and living our core values.

    ~ Dr. Charles Johnson-Bey,
    Senior Vice President, Booz Allen Hamilton

    “You are simply and completely walking, talking, living, breathing set of values.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    This Core Values Quiz is for you if you are:

  • A high achiever or professional seeking more alignment and purpose in your personal and professional life.

  • Experiencing burnout or stress and looking to reconnect with what truly motivates and energizes you.

  • Undergoing a life transition, like a career change, move, or relationship shift, and need clarity on your direction and decisions.

  • Passionate about personal development, regularly engaging in self-reflection, and committed to growth and mindfulness.

  • A leader or entrepreneur aiming to build a value-driven culture in your organization while aligning your leadership with your core values.

  • Feeling disconnected or lost, seeking clarity, and wanting to reconnect with your sense of purpose and identity.

  • Struggling to set boundaries in relationships, work, or other areas of life, and eager to define what’s truly important to you.

  • Interested in emotional intelligence and mindfulness and striving to live more authentically with greater self-awareness.

  • Looking to understand your shared values with your partner, family members, or friends and want to strengthen your relationships through greater alignment.

  • A creative or solopreneur wanting to ensure your work reflects your personal values and fulfills you on a deeper level.

  • "You're not drained because you're doing too much. You're drained because you're doing too little of what reflects your values.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    What Are Core Values?

    Core values are your personal compass, guiding you toward what truly matters and how you want to live your life. Imagine them as your own unique imprint—like fingerprints—that reflect who you are at your core. 

    They help you make choices that align with your authentic self, steering you in the right direction. When you follow your values, you feel a sense of peace and alignment. But when you stray from them, you might feel unsettled or out of sync.

    Living in alignment with your core values is the key to true happiness and fulfillment. These values extend beyond abstract ideas—they help us tap into our deepest emotions and beliefs, revealing aspects of ourselves we may not have been fully aware of. By reflecting on what truly matters to us, we uncover new layers of our identity.

    Core values are the foundation for personal growth and development. They serve as the starting point for creating a life that feels purposeful, balanced, and authentically yours. When you embrace and honor your values, you unlock the potential for deeper connections, meaningful progress, and a life filled with intention.

    Over 9,000 people have taken our Core Values Quiz, and the top Core Values that drive them are Learning, Growth, Freedom, Trust, and Purpose.

    Why are Values Important?

    Your core values serve as a compass, helping you navigate life with clarity and confidence. When you know what truly matters to you, it’s easier to stay grounded, focused, and aligned. This doesn’t just help you take care of yourself—it helps you show up as your best self for others, too.

    We all have values that show up in everything we do, from the choices we make to the way we interact with the world. When something goes against those values, we feel unsettled, stressed, or drained. On the other hand, when we’re living in alignment with what we deeply care about, we feel energized, alive, and on purpose.

    Stress often comes from feeling disconnected from what’s truly important to us, rather than from being too busy. We are not drained because we are doing too much; we are drained from doing too little of what aligns with our values. 

    When we’re not doing enough of what brings us joy or meaning, the weight of it shows up in our energy and mindset. That’s where values play a critical role—they help us prioritize the things and people that resonate with us, and steer us away from what doesn’t.

    By focusing on your core values, you unlock a powerful flow of energy and freedom. It starts to feel easy to make choices that align with who you truly are. Understanding what motivates you isn’t just about productivity—it’s about feeling connected to a deeper sense of purpose, every single day.

    "Living your values doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when choosing your values with integrity over and over again.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    How to Put Core Values into Practice

    I get asked this a lot, and I’m always thrilled to answer because aligning your life with your values is one of the most powerful and transformative things you can do. But first, let’s set the foundation: your values are the guiding principles that help you navigate life with authenticity, peace, and purpose. 

    However, let me be clear—aligning with your values isn’t a quick fix. It’s a process that requires ongoing commitment and self-awareness. Here's how you can get started:

    1. Start with Awareness: Recognizing your values is the first step. You can do this with our Core Values Quiz. For many of us, these values have been shaped by our experiences, upbringing, and the lessons we’ve learned (or have yet to learn).

    I like to have my clients do a quick reflection exercise, where they jot down the things that fill them up with energy and the things that drain them. Why? Because when you're living in alignment with your values, you'll feel energized. When you’re not, you'll feel drained.

    One of my clients recently texted me, "Help! Imposter syndrome is hitting me hard." This was a great opportunity for us to look deeper—what values were being overshadowed by impostor syndrome? She realized it was her value of Authenticity that she was neglecting.

    2. Set Clear Expectations: Consider how you envision yourself showing up in your daily life, both personally and professionally. This is where the magic happens because, for me, the more specific and tangible we get about our values, the easier it becomes to live by them.

    A good example is one of my clients who was feeling drained by constant emails and social media notifications. We worked together to set a boundary—one that honored their value of Connection—by scheduling specific times for checking in with others and consciously stepping away from distractions.

    When you set clear expectations, you’re honoring your values, and that’s what helps you make empowered decisions throughout the day.

    3. Make Value Promises: This is one of my favorite practices, and it's a tool I encourage all of my clients to use. Value promises are commitments you make to yourself to act in alignment with your values every day.

    I’ll give you an example: I have a client who values Courage deeply, but she often struggles to speak up when it matters most. So, together, we created a promise for her: "I will speak up in meetings when I have something to contribute, even if it feels uncomfortable."

    The result? She's been stepping into her courage and is already seeing massive shifts in her personal and professional life.

    4. Check In Regularly: Life is busy, and we all get caught up in the rush. But here's the thing: alignment is an ongoing process. I personally review my values every quarter, and I encourage my clients to do the same.

    One of my favorite ways to do this is through a practice I call “values-based mindfulness.” It’s a simple exercise where you pause, close your eyes, and tune into your heart, mind, and gut to check if they’re aligned.

    In fact, one of my recent clients came to me feeling overwhelmed by a big decision. I had her pause and ask herself, "Which of my values can help me now?" She instantly realized her value of Clarity was being clouded by fear. So we used that insight to guide her decision-making, and she was able to move forward with confidence.

    5. Celebrate Your Wins: Sometimes, we get so caught up in what's not working that we forget to celebrate what is. I encourage you to take a moment to honor the times when you do show up aligned with your values, even in small ways.

    Whether it's acknowledging a hard conversation you navigated with integrity or taking time to rest when you honored one of your values, those moments deserve celebration. After all, when you’re living in alignment with your values, you’re making an impact—not just on yourself, but on the world around you.

    Remember, you’re not alone in this. It's okay to take baby steps. It’s okay to fall off track.

    In fact, I find that most of my clients—who are high achievers—tend to reach out to me in real-time, even when they’re in the midst of a struggle. One of them texted me recently, saying, "I just got blindsided by my partner and need to dig myself out of a dark hole."

    That’s the power of having someone on your side, guiding you back to your values. As I always tell my clients, you have full permission to be human, and I’m here to support you through it all.

    If you’re feeling stuck or need support in aligning your life with your values, I’d love to help. Reach out to me, and we’ll work together to light up your life with purpose and clarity.

  • “Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words.

    Keep your words positive because your words become your behavior.

    Keep your behavior positive because your behavior becomes your habits.
    Keep your habits positive because your habits become your values.”

    — Mahatma Gandhi

    Where Do Values Come From?

    Your values aren’t something you’re just born with—they are shaped over time by your life experiences, the people around you, and the environments you’ve been in. Often, our values are instilled in us by those who raised us, mentors, or even peers. But they can also be influenced by the circumstances we’ve faced, especially the challenging ones that have pushed us to grow.

    When I work with clients, one of the first things I help them do is slow down and reflect on where their values come from—because when we truly understand the origin of our values, it becomes much easier to live by them in a way that feels authentic.

    Here’s how you can begin to uncover and live by your values:

    1. Reflect on Your Life’s Key Moments: Our values are often shaped by pivotal experiences—those moments when life shifted or challenged us in some way. When I guide clients through this process, we do a deep dive into their life story.

    For example, one client realized that her core value of Connection was deeply influenced by growing up in a multicultural environment where different perspectives were celebrated.

    This reflection isn't just about picking values off a list—it's about honoring what life experiences have shaped your values.

    2. Get Comfortable with the Discomfort: This work isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be downright uncomfortable. When we reflect on where our values come from, we may need to revisit painful or difficult moments.

    In one recent coaching session, a client shared how confronting their childhood trauma during a values exercise stirred up a lot of old wounds. At first, it felt overwhelming, but after processing those emotions, they realized that their value of Self-respect came from those very painful moments.

    That’s why the work is so powerful: it asks us to dig deep and sit with the discomfort long enough to create space for healing and growth.

    3. Embrace Self-Awareness: Self-awareness is the foundation for living authentically. I’ve seen this firsthand when clients begin to connect with their values.

    One client came to me struggling with self-doubt. After working together to uncover their core values, they realized that their true value of Authenticity had been suppressed by their fear of being judged. By acknowledging this misalignment, they were able to give themselves permission to step into their authenticity in a much bigger way, both at work and in their personal life.

    This shift didn’t happen overnight, but the breakthrough moment came when they recognized the dissonance between their values and their actions.

    4. Live Your Values Through Action: It’s one thing to identify your values, but living them out every day is where the magic happens. For example, one of my values is Empowerment, which is why I make it a point to remind my coaching clients that they have the power to make changes in real-time.

    In fact, three clients reached out to me mid-crisis—one was struggling with imposter syndrome, another was dreading a difficult conversation, and the third was feeling blindsided by a relationship issue. I was thrilled to hear from them because they chose to reach out for support in the moment, rather than letting their challenges build up into bigger problems.

    Empowerment is about recognizing that you can shift things in real-time. When you act on your values in those moments, you create a ripple effect of change.

    5. Remember, You Are Not Alone: Values work is personal, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. I’m a firm believer in the power of community and support.

    When my clients share their struggles with me—whether it’s setting a boundary or reclaiming their sense of purpose—it lights me up. Why? Because every time they take action based on their values, they’re one step closer to living a life that truly reflects who they are.

    You’re not in this journey alone, and the discomfort you may feel at times is just part of the process.

    Your values are the roadmap to living a life that is aligned with your authentic self. When you take the time to reflect, honor your past, and take action based on your core values, you start to experience more fulfillment, purpose, and peace in your everyday life. It’s a lifelong journey, and I’m here to help guide you every step of the way.

    "If you feel like you’re coming alive, it’s because your values are in action. And if you feel like you are being sucked dry it's because your values are being violated.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    Can Your Values Change Over Time?

    Yes! Overall, our core values stay pretty constant. Meaning the things that drive us often do for most of our lives.

    However, life experiences (particularly milestone moments—when you felt incredibly high and painfully low) can dramatically change us and our values.

    That is why it is important to do a value check on a regular basis. We suggest taking the core values quiz at least once a year and comparing your new values assessment with your old one.

    My husband and I take our core values assessment test every year to assess the stability of our core values and identify any changes that may have occurred. When we first started, spiritual life did not resonate with either of us. We thought it was some mumbo-jumbo stuff that people told themselves to feel better. But after a life-changing retreat, we transformed that thinking. Spirituality now drives us more than anything!

    That is why it is important to do a personal values assessment on a regular basis.

    Respondents who have taken our Core Values Quiz say that personal growth and self-improvement are the #1 areas of their lives that they want to align with their values.

    Why are Human Values Important?

    In today’s fast-paced world, where technology and artificial intelligence are advancing at an unprecedented rate, human values have never been more crucial. While AI is making incredible strides and taking on more tasks, it’s our core values that keep us grounded and remind us what truly matters.

    We all know that technology—especially social media—can be distracting. It’s easy to feel disconnected from others when we’re constantly scrolling or plugged into our devices. But when we take the time to pause and reflect on our values, we create space for deeper, more meaningful connections.

    I see this with my clients all the time. Many come to me feeling overwhelmed or isolated, but when we uncover their core values—values like Connection, Authenticity, and Empathy—they begin to feel more aligned with themselves and the people around them. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about recognizing what truly matters to you and acting on those values.

    The truth is, we are all craving authentic relationships and a sense of belonging. And it’s by understanding and living our values that we can build those connections, whether at work, at home, or within our communities. Values are the bridge that brings us together, even when the world feels disconnected.

    If you’re ready to uncover what truly drives you, I encourage you to take our Core Values Quiz. This simple tool will help you identify the values that are most important to you, offering clarity on where you might need to realign your life and giving you the chance to lead from a place of authenticity. 

    When you know your values, everything else—your relationships, your work, your sense of purpose—begins to fall into place.

    "Values are not just words, but rather they are the key to unlocking the emotional intelligence that already exists within us.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    What is Value Based Leadership?

    Values-based leadership is all about leading with authenticity and staying true to what truly matters to you. It means making decisions and taking actions that align with your core values. When you lead in this way, you're not just thinking about outcomes—you’re focused on being present, mindful, and compassionate toward others.

    But here’s the thing: Values-based leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of consistently making choices that are aligned with your values. If you want to lead with intention and integrity, it’s essential to regularly check in with yourself and ensure that your actions align with your values.

    One of the ways I help my clients achieve this is through a simple but powerful practice I call the "full-body check." It's about listening to your mind, gut, and heart to see if they’re in alignment with the decisions you’re making. When you make decisions based on your values, your leadership becomes more grounded, confident, and authentic.

    For example, I recall a client visiting me feeling completely drained and lost after a meeting. In that moment, I guided them to pause and take a deep breath. They closed their eyes, placed their hands on their heart, and asked themselves, “Which of my values can help me right now?” The answer? Authenticity. By simply honoring their truth and speaking from that place, they felt a shift and regained their confidence.

    When you lead from your values, you become more in tune with your mind, body, and soul. It’s about taking the time to listen to yourself, check in with what feels off, and realign your choices with your core values.

    This doesn’t just make you a better leader—it makes you a more grounded, well-balanced human being.By understanding your values more deeply, you can lead from a place of clarity and confidence—whether at work, at home, or in your community.

    “We want leaders who practice their values, not just profess them. We want courage—not slogans on posters. Speak up, listen, and be brave.”

    — Brené Brown

    What are My Values?

    You might be asking yourself, “What are my values?” or how to discover them. The truth is, identifying your core values is a personal and powerful journey. Your values are the things that make you feel most alive and fulfilled, like when you're doing something that truly lights you up.

    For example, if you feel energized when you’re with friends, then Friendship could be a core value of yours. On the other hand, if socializing feels draining, then the value of Friendship might not be as important to you, and that’s totally okay. We all have unique values that shape who we are.

    If you're ready to explore your values, here’s a simple activity to try. For the next week, notice when you feel the most energized and when you feel drained. Pay attention to the situations, the people, and what’s happening around you. You can jot down your thoughts in a notebook or a phone app—it doesn’t need to be complicated. Just ask yourself, “When did I feel really energized today?” and “When did I feel drained?”

    Reflecting on these moments will provide clues about the values being honored in your life. When you’re feeling good, your values are being activated. When you feel off, it’s often because something isn’t aligning with your core values.

    To help you with this process, consider taking a values assessment, such as our personal values quiz. It is a great tool for identifying your core values and the things that truly matter to you.

    It’s a simple way to start understanding what drives you and where your focus should be. This core values assessment test will also help you see the values you’re already living and those that you may want to prioritize.

    By investing a moment to reflect and using tools like our values quiz, you can begin to build a life that’s truly aligned with your authentic self. And as you get clearer on your values, you’ll be able to make decisions that support who you are and what you truly want.

    Over 9,000 people have taken our Core Values Quiz, and the top Aspirational Values they wish they had are Self-Discipline, Inner Harmony, Exciting Life, Self-Respect and Self-Care.

    What Differentiates our Free Core Values Quiz from other Value Quiz Sites?

    You have many options when you want to discover your core values. What makes our free core values assessment different from other values tests?

    Our free values assessment has you rank each value based on whether it drives you, describes you, doesn’t resonate with you, or you wish you had it.

    “This Drives Me” indicates something that really motivates you. You could even say it’s unshakably who you are. Core Values

    “I Wish This Drove Me” is more about being honest with yourself. You aspire to be this way, but it’s not your experience. And that is OK. Aspirational Values

    “This Describes Me” indicates something that is a part of what’s important to you but doesn’t necessarily motivate you. Values And finally,

    “This Does Not Resonate”
    is the most self-explanatory. It indicates something that simply doesn’t resonate with you. It’s neither good nor bad. It just is. Not Values

    You will use these categories to classify each value for yourself.

    You get to reflect on your values rather than just picking them from a values inventory or core values index. What’s very important during this exercise is that you are honest with yourself.

    For example, if I am honest with myself, when I hear the value of health, I have to put it in the “I Wish This Drove Me” category because I think it’s important. Still, I’m not currently someone who is motivated to exercise regularly—although I wish I were. That’s not to say that I couldn’t be in the future; I simply am not actively exercising at this present time in my life.

    Notice that I describe health as related to exercise. You might have a totally different definition. And that’s OK. I’m intentionally not providing definitions for each value because we all interpret words differently.

    Only focus on what that word means to you, just like I did with the example of health. You don’t need to Google it or ask someone else their opinion; simply tap into your intuition and trust that whatever you believe it means is correct. Because when it comes to your values, that is so very true.

    When you are selecting a category, try not to spend too much time debating where it should fall. If you’re torn, revisit it later; you can always change it in the future.

    There is no right or wrong way to do this. As long as you’re being honest with yourself, you are doing this from a good place.

    Once you have finished your core values quiz, you’ll be emailed a personalized values assessment report and a professionally designed values profile to help remind you of your values. It will be a core values PDF that you can print.

    And, our free online core values quiz only takes minutes to complete!

    "Living your values is not something that locks into place and stays there without maintenance.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    What are Examples of Personal Values?

    Before taking the core values quiz, you may be wondering about some personal values examples. There are numerous examples of personal values.

    Here is a personal values list. This doesn’t include every value. It represents the top 10 core values of people who have taken our values assessment. You'll find the list of values when you take our free core values quiz.

  • Growth

  • Learning

  • Freedom

  • Trust

  • Purpose

  • Connection

  • Curiosity

  • Authenticity

  • Family Security

  • True Friendship

  • "It’s not hard to make decisions once you know what your values are."

    — Roy E. Disney

    How do Company Core Values Connect to Your Company’s Vision and Mission?

    Your company's vision explains why you do what you do. The mission describes what you do every day. Your company values show how you achieve your mission and reach your vision.

    Your culture isn't aligned if your actions don't match your stated organizational values. Instead, it's aspirational, based more on wishful thinking than daily reality.

    But when your actions and values align, you create a special place. This place is filled with loyalty, commitment, and excitement. It's a place where everyone, regardless of age, wants to stay. It feels almost magical.

    Values bring us to life, both individually and as a team. A strong workplace culture connects us through shared, deep motivations. Core values satisfy us deeply. Isn't that wonderful?

    When your job matches your core values, it sparks passion. If not, stress follows. Knowing, owning, and living your core values helps attract and keep great people. It fosters a shared sense of purpose and passion. The results will be clear.

    You lack direction and boundaries for your culture without knowing your core values. This leads to disengagement, dissatisfaction, and a disconnect. It affects both your team and how others see you.

    "One of the most powerful aspects of knowing, owning, and living our values is making value-aligned and grounded decisions with total clarity.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    What Are My Personal Values Quiz?

    Understanding your personal values is crucial for living a life in alignment with your true self. Your core values act as a compass, guiding your decisions, shaping your goals, and influencing your relationships.

    If you've ever felt uncertain about a choice or struggled with finding direction, it may be because your actions weren't aligned with your core beliefs. That’s where a personal values quiz can make a profound difference.

    Why Taking a Personal Values Quiz Matters

    Taking a personal values quiz isn’t just an exercise in self-reflection; it’s a powerful tool for personal growth. By identifying your core values, you gain clarity on what truly matters to you, making it easier to prioritize your time, energy, and resources. A personal values assessment test helps you uncover the principles that define your character, allowing you to live more authentically and with greater intention.

    How Our Core Values Quiz Can Help

    Our personal values test is designed to help you dive deep into your inner beliefs and uncover the values that drive your behavior. Whether navigating a career change, seeking more meaningful relationships, or simply looking to understand yourself better, this quiz provides valuable insights.

    By understanding your personal values, you can make decisions that resonate with your true self, leading to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

    Taking the time to complete our personal values quiz can be a transformative experience. It helps you define your priorities and provides a framework for making choices that reflect who you are at your core. Embrace the power of self-awareness and start your journey toward living a life that truly aligns with your personal values.

    “Who you are, what your values are, what you stand for—they are your anchor, your north star. You won’t find them in a book. You’ll find them in your soul.”

    — Anne Mulcahy

    Why Should I Know My Core Values?

    Knowing your core values is like having a personal roadmap for navigating life with purpose and clarity. Core values are the deeply held beliefs that guide your decisions, shape your relationships, and influence how you respond to challenges.

    When you understand your core values, you gain insight into what truly matters to you, making it easier to make choices that align with who you are and want to become.

    One of the biggest benefits of knowing your core values is the confidence it brings. When you’re clear on what you stand for, you’re less likely to be swayed by external pressures. Decisions become easier because you’re guided by principles that resonate with your authentic self.

    This confidence also strengthens relationships, as you’re more likely to build connections based on shared values, creating a foundation of trust and understanding.

    Values are essential for setting boundaries that protect your well-being. By knowing your priorities, you can confidently establish boundaries that support a healthy, fulfilling life. For example, if Honesty is a core value, you’re likely to seek relationships and environments where honesty is prioritized, ensuring you’re surrounded by people who respect and support your principles.

    In times of uncertainty or difficulty, core values provide stability. They remind you of what’s important and help you stay grounded, resilient, and focused on growth. When you live in accordance with your values, you experience a sense of alignment, which leads to greater fulfillment, inner peace, and a deeper sense of purpose.

    If you’re ready to discover your core values and unlock a more intentional, fulfilling life, start by taking our core values assessment test today. This values assessment can help you identify and prioritize the values that make you who you are, empowering you to live with authenticity and purpose.

    "Happiness is impossible if you abandon your values.”

    - MaryBeth Hyland, Permission to Be Human

    Values Reminders

    Here are a few mantras and affirmations to serve you on your journey to know, own and live your values.

    1. I am a walking, talking, living, breathing set of values.

    2. My energy shows me when my values are present.

    3. My core values are my internal compass and represent what I stand for.

    4. Values reflect who I am, what I do, and how I define success and failure.

    5. Every day is filled with purpose, pride, and productivity when my values are activated.

    6. I am mindful of what does and does not activate my values.

    7. My values are mine to define.

    8. I know, own, and live my values through my actions.

    9. I choose my values in the face of adversity.

    10. My happiness exists in the presence of my values.

    About the Author - MaryBeth Hyland

      MaryBeth HyandMaryBeth Hyland

      As the Founder of SparkVision and creator of Values-Based Mindfulness, MaryBeth Hyland knows that extraordinary success is rooted in the vision, values, and culture crafted by purpose-driven leaders and their teams. With over a decade of experience, built on knowledge from a BA in Social Work and MS in Nonprofit Management, she’s known for her ability to guide individuals and teams to know, own and live their values.

      And she does that with the understanding that we all have a deep desire to know and return to our most authentic selves – at work, home and within.

      As a keynote speaker, mindfulness instructor, and values expert, she engages audiences and teams all over the world with her authentic style of facilitation, coaching and empowerment. Her recent awards include, “Circle of Excellence”, “Innovator of the Year”, “Top 100 Women”, “Civic Engagement Leader” and “Leading Women”. She has also been recognized as a leading expert by The Washington Post, The Huffington Post, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, NBC, CBS, FOX and more. She has worked with Netflix, Accenture, Johns Hopkins, Lockheed Martin, UPS, Tyson Foods, and Fortune Magazine, to name a few.

      As the author of “Permission to Be Human: The Conscious Leader’s Guide to Creating Values-Driven Culture”, her personal life’s mission is to create spaces where voices are heard, stories are released, and alignment is ignited.

    Learn More about Permission to Be Human

    Endorsements

    “MaryBeth is an authority and thought leader in workplace culture. I’ve experienced the extremely positive results of the tenets of this book.

    Permission to Be Human will soon become required reading for leaders looking to build people, teams, and relationships.”

    Dr. Charles Johnson-Bey

    Senior Vice President of Booz Allen Hamilton

    “The beauty of Permission to Be Human is that it combines the wisdom of MaryBeth’s intuitive gifts with proven practices about how diverse groups of individuals can take the journey together, particularly in times of stress, and embrace what once seemed impossible.”

    Lisa M. Schroeder

    President and CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation

    “Having worked with MaryBeth, I’m thrilled to know her heart-centered work will be impacting even more people in the future. Her authentic actionsvalues, and words illuminate how we can make true cultural shifts to unite us through our shared humanity at work and beyond.”

    Darlene Slaughter

    Chief Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement Officer for March of Dimes

    “MaryBeth is a powerful, empathic and conscious leader who both lives by her core values and is here to activate more consciousness in the workplace.

    In her book, Permission to Be Human she makes the case for using our heart’s wisdom more intentionally so that we can thrive at work today and for generations to come.”

    Julie Reisler

    International Transformation Coach

    “Technology is transforming every single job on the planet and will replace millions of them in the upcoming years.

    However, we have an unbeatable competitive advantage over technology: it can’t do what humans are unique and extraordinary at – being human.

    Permission to Be Human is a timely and necessary guide for leaders to heighten their EQ, systems, and processes for our shared human experience at work.”

    Enrique Rubio

    Founder of Hacking HR

    “It’s so clear that MaryBeth is giving it all away in Permission to Be Human – her experience, stories, process, and vision of the world.

    I am confident that anyone that reads it will have them questioning what more is possible if they took time to intentionally align their values to their actions.”

    Jennifer McDowell

    Founder and Principal Coach of Common Good

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