Values Clarification

A practice of identifying and prioritizing what truly matters in your life, especially in the face of mortality awareness. Death awareness often helps people rearrange life priorities by trivializing life's trivia and focusing on authentic values—deep connections, meaningful work, appreciation of life's beauty, and actions aligned with one's true self rather than superficial concerns.

Source: Described in 'Staring at the Sun' by Irvin D. Yalom. Yalom explains how death awareness helps people rearrange priorities and identify authentic values.

How to practice

1. 1Reflect on what truly matters to you, especially when considering your mortality
2. 2Identify which concerns are trivial versus which are authentically meaningful
3. 3Rearrange priorities to focus on what you genuinely value
4. 4Consider: 'If I looked back, what would I want to have prioritized?'
5. 5Assume the power to choose not to do things you don't really wish to do
6. 6Focus on authentic values: deep relationships, meaningful contribution, appreciation of life
7. 7Allow death awareness to clarify what you want to stand for

Based on literature