A different way to identify core values

I have run core value identification workshops a number of times in my career...with individuals and teams. Usually this means giving them a long list of values. Then we use a more or less fancy elimitation system to arrive at someone's core values.

I have recently changed my mind on this.

Picking values from the list most likely gets you 'aspirational values' only. But for most people it's hard to identify your own. As they say: "It's hard to see the label of the bottle that you are in!" 🍾

I found a better and more reliable way: I ask people about their bank account (or credit card) and their calendar.

Why?

The way you spend your discretionary money and time are very reliable pointers to what's ACTUALLY important you.

You say that your family is you most important value? Why then do they get only 6 hours of quality time per week in your calendar, but endurance sports gets 10 per week? (real case)

You say you value health? Why does your spending pattern for food indicate a preference for comfort food? (also real case)

The learning?

The truth lies in observing actual behavior, not how we ideally want to behave. That's why Netflixx also stopped asking people for their preferred shows. People imagine themselves watching the next big historical drama, but then...it's the next comedy or else:)

So what are YOUR values?