Ever feel stuck in your job, unsure if it truly aligns with what matters most to you? Many professionals face this challenge, struggling to balance daily tasks with deeper priorities. That’s where Alina Campos’ Values Discovery Exercise comes in—a proven tool to help clarify what drives you.
Campos, a Muse career coach, designed this four-part worksheet to uncover core motivations. It guides users through identifying strengths, passions, and preferences. The goal? To bridge the gap between current work and personal fulfillment.
Freelancers and full-time employees alike have used it to uncover surprising insights. For example, some seeking stability realized collaboration mattered more. Others discovered misaligned priorities causing workplace dissatisfaction.
Key Takeaways
- Pinpoint what truly matters in your professional life.
- Align daily tasks with long-term goals.
- Reduce stress by focusing on meaningful work.
- Gain clarity through structured self-reflection.
- Access a free downloadable PDF for immediate use.
Why Career Values Matter for Your Professional Happiness
Professional fulfillment often hinges on aligning daily tasks with deeper personal drivers. These non-negotiable priorities—like independence or work-life balance—shape motivation and resilience. When ignored, even lucrative roles can feel draining.
Research by Alina Campos reveals that misalignment fuels disengagement. One freelancer assumed stability mattered most, but burnout struck until they recognized belonging was their true need. Such gaps explain why 48% of employees cite mismatched values as a reason for quitting.
The U.S. Department of Labor identifies six core drivers of job satisfaction:
Achievement, Independence, Recognition, Relationships, Support, and Working Conditions. Ignoring these can strain teamwork, reduce output, and trigger chronic job-hopping.
Long-term success ties closely to values alignment. Leaders often share one trait: their work reflects what they prioritize. Promotions and growth follow when actions match internal compasses.
How to Use a Career Values Worksheet Effectively
A well-designed exercise can transform vague career goals into clear, actionable steps. Campos’ structured approach helps you pinpoint what truly matters—and how to apply it to job searches, promotions, or career pivots. Below, we break down the process into three manageable phases.
Step 1: Download and Review the Worksheet
Start by accessing Campos’ free PDF or the CareerOneStop Work Values Self-Assessment. Both tools feature a comprehensive list of 35+ drivers, from “Creativity” to “Stability.” Definitions accompany each term to eliminate ambiguity.
For example, “Moral Fulfillment” might mean contributing to social good, while “Flexibility” could imply remote work options. Skim the entire list before rating to grasp the full scope.
Step 2: Rate and Prioritize Your Values
Use the 1–4 scale: 1 (unimportant) to 4 (critical). Be honest—this isn’t about societal expectations but your authentic priorities. Compare high-scoring items like “Work-Life Balance” and “Advancement” to identify patterns.
Pro tip: Group similar values (e.g., “Teamwork” and “Collaboration”) to avoid overlap. Campos suggests revisiting ratings after a week to confirm consistency.
Step 3: Identify Non-Negotiables (“Deal-Breakers”)
These are boundaries that, if crossed, make a role unsustainable. Campos’ client rejected offers lacking cross-functional collaboration—a non-negotiable for their teamwork-driven style.
Limit your list to 3–5 deal-breakers. Too many can unrealistically narrow opportunities. Examples include mandatory office attendance (if flexibility is key) or roles without growth paths.
3 Expert Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Values Exercise
The real power of a values assessment comes from how you apply it—not just completing it. Campos’ clients often discover deeper insights by following these research-backed strategies.
Take Your Time and Reflect
Rushing through the process limits self-discovery. Campos advises dedicating 2–3 weeks for reflection. One client initially ranked “High Salary” as a top priority but later realized “Creative Freedom” mattered more after revisiting their responses.
Schedule short, uninterrupted sessions. Jot down how each value shows up in your current role—or where it’s missing.
Discuss with a Trusted Person
Mentors or colleagues can challenge assumptions. For example, they might ask: “Is ‘Leadership’ truly important, or are you influenced by external expectations?”
CareerOneStop’s research shows that workplaces prioritizing relationships see 34% higher trust levels. Use these conversations to identify cultural fits for your non-negotiables.
Revisit Your Worksheet Periodically
Priorities evolve with life changes. A freelancer might shift from valuing “Independence” to “Teamwork” after starting a family. Campos recommends biannual reviews.
Track changes in a journal. Notice patterns—like consistently scoring “Learning” higher after skill-building phases.
Conclusion: Turn Your Values into Actionable Career Goals
Turning insights into action is the key to meaningful progress. Use your prioritized list to set SMART goals, like landing a managerial role with hybrid work by Q3. Let these guide your next steps.
Apply your clarity during interviews. Ask about team dynamics or flexibility to ensure alignment. As Campos says, “Knowing your ‘why’ builds confidence” to pursue changes boldly.
Need more help? Explore Muse’s tools for pivots or negotiations. Ready to start? Download the free guide, schedule a review, and share your wins. Your future self will thank you.
FAQ
What is a career values worksheet?
It’s a tool that helps you identify what truly matters in your professional life. By listing and ranking priorities, you can make smarter job decisions.
How often should I update my worksheet?
Revisit it every 6-12 months or when major life changes occur. Priorities shift, so keeping it current ensures alignment with your goals.
Can this worksheet help with job dissatisfaction?
Yes. Comparing your current role to your core values highlights mismatches. This clarity guides better career moves.
Should I share my worksheet with employers?
While not required, discussing key values during interviews helps find companies that fit your priorities. Be selective about what you disclose.
What if I struggle to choose between values?
Focus on what impacts your daily happiness most. Ask: “Which value, if missing, would make me quit a job fastest?” That reveals true priorities.
