Hello! My name is Tyrone and this is the first entry to my blog series: Insights from the Intern. I have recently started working at iMentalHealth seeing patients to gain hours for my practicum. Completing this section of my education will result in me finishing my Masters in Arts in Counselling Psychology! Very exciting! I have taken on the task of writing some informational blogs during my practicum. These blogs will touch on many topics related to mental health and be based in the methods of treatment that I use personally. Look out for them biweekly on Saturdays when hopefully you have some time to curl up on the couch with a nice warm beverage!
I am a person who believes in strong values. Having a set of concrete words, ideas, and values, provides you with the foundation in which you can lean on if you’re ever unsure about a decision you need to make or how you should feel. This blog my help to guide you through the journey of discovering and embracing your authentic personal values. This is a journey that few of us take consciously but can be incredibly significant for personal growth, Mental Health, and overall wellbeing. It’s a part of our mission at iMentalHealth Counselling Services in St. Albert, Alberta, to support people in finding the resources within them to heal, grow, and find Meaning in their life to move forward in their mental health journey.
Understanding Authentic Personal Values
Authentic personal values are the principles that guide our decisions, actions, and behaviour. They are deeply ingrained within us, formed by our experiences, beliefs, and individuality. Unlike imposed values, which are dictated by societal norms or expectations, authentic personal values are unique to each individual and resonate with their inner truth. They are the compass that guides us through life, helping us make decisions that align with who we truly are.
The Importance of Living Your Truth
Living your truth means aligning your actions with your authentic personal values. It is about being true to yourself, regardless of societal expectations or pressures. Living your truth has a profound impact on mental health, as it fosters self-esteem, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It allows you to live a life that is true to who you are, rather than one that is shaped by the expectations of others.
The Journey Towards Authenticity
The journey towards authenticity involves identifying your authentic personal values and differentiating them from societal expectations. This journey requires self-discovery, introspection, and the courage to embrace your personal truth. It’s a process that can be challenging but ultimately rewarding, as it leads to a life that is more fulfilling and true to who you are.
Personal Value Development
Developing personal values is a dynamic process influenced by our experiences and environment. Nurturing and strengthening these values require consistent reflection, evaluation, and alignment with our actions. It’s about understanding what truly matters to us, and making decisions that reflect these values.
Embracing Authentic Values
Embracing authentic values can be challenging, as it often involves confronting fear and resistance. However, the benefits of aligning actions with personal values are immense, leading to a sense of integrity, self-respect, and inner peace. It’s about standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s difficult.
Self-Discovery and Personal Values
Self-discovery is a critical component of personal value development. It allows us to gain a deeper understanding of our personal truth and authentic values. Tools and practices for self-discovery include mindfulness, journaling, and professional counselling. At iMentalHealth Counselling Services, we offer individual counselling, couples counselling, and other psychological services to support you in this journey.
Finding Your Truth
Finding your truth involves uncovering your authentic personal values through introspection and reflection. It requires validating and affirming your personal truth, free from external influences or judgments. It’s about accepting who you are, and living a life that reflects this truth. A lot of times we uncover these values when we are in a crisis. It is only when something is really bothering us we are given the information needed to fuel reflection around the values that may be brought to our attention.
Authenticity in Personal Life
Authenticity impacts all aspects of personal life, including relationships, career, and overall wellbeing. Maintaining authenticity in daily life requires conscious effort, self-awareness, and the courage to stand by your personal truth. It’s about living a life that is true to who you are, rather than one that is shaped by the expectations of others. If “honesty” is important to you, does that come through when it is being tested?
Guide to Living Your Truth
Living your truth involves integrating authenticity into daily routines, dealing with conflicts between personal values and societal norms, and consistently aligning actions with personal values. It’s about making decisions that reflect your true self, and standing by these decisions even when they are challenging. It can be very hard to live by certain tenets that we may put on a pedestal. Thus, self-compassion and a willingness to recommit to your values is necessary. No one is perfect, so we may stray from the values we label as important to who we are. If that happens, forgive yourself, reflect on what happened, and make a commitment to try again the next time.
Personal Growth and Authenticity
Personal growth and authenticity are interconnected. Living your truth promotes personal growth by fostering self-awareness, resilience, and the pursuit of life goals aligned with personal values. It’s about growing as a person, while staying true to who you are.
Conclusion
Living your truth and embracing authentic personal values is a rewarding journey towards personal growth and mental health. It requires courage, self-discovery, and the commitment to align actions with personal values. As you embark on this journey, remember that each person’s path is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to live your truth.
If you need support in your journey towards authenticity, feel free to reach out to us at iMentalHealth Counselling Services. You can call us at (780) 893-9091 or email us at admin@imentalhealth.ca. You can also book an appointment on our website at https://imentalhealth.ca/. We are here to support you in your journey towards mental health and personal growth.