What are effective ways to identify core values and strengths for late career goal setting?

1 Why values and strengths matter

Your values are the principles and beliefs that guide your decisions and actions. They reflect what is important to you and what gives you satisfaction and fulfillment. Your strengths are the natural talents and abilities that you have developed over time. They are the things that you are good at and enjoy doing. Knowing your values and strengths can help you set goals that match your identity, purpose, and potential. They can also help you overcome challenges, cope with change, and find opportunities for growth and learning.

2 How to identify your values

One way to identify your values is to use a values assessment tool, such as the Values in Action (VIA) Survey or the Career Values Card Sort. These tools can help you rank a list of values according to their importance to you and provide you with feedback and insights. Another way to identify your values is to reflect on your past experiences and achievements. Think of the times when you felt happy, proud, or fulfilled in your work or life. What values were you expressing or honoring in those moments? What values do you want to express or honor more in the future?

3 How to identify your strengths

One way to identify your strengths is to use a strengths assessment tool, such as the StrengthsFinder or the CliftonStrengths. These tools can help you discover your top strengths and how they relate to your performance and well-being. Another way to identify your strengths is to ask for feedback from others. Think of the people who know you well and appreciate your work or contributions. What do they say are your strengths? What do they value about you? What do they see as your unique gifts or talents?

4 How to use your values and strengths for goal setting

Once you have identified your values and strengths, you can use them as a foundation for your goal setting. Start by creating a vision statement that summarizes your values and strengths and how you want to use them in your work or life. Then, break down your vision into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that align with your vision. For example, if your vision is to use your creativity and communication skills to inspire and educate others, your SMART goal could be to write and publish a book on a topic you are passionate about within a year.

5 How to monitor and adjust your goals

Setting goals is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires monitoring and adjusting. You need to track your progress, celebrate your achievements, and learn from your setbacks. You also need to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances and opportunities. You might need to revise or modify your goals based on new information, feedback, or challenges. You might also need to set new goals that reflect your evolving values and strengths. The key is to keep your goals relevant, realistic, and rewarding.

6 How to get support and guidance

Identifying your values and strengths and setting goals can be challenging and rewarding. You don't have to do it alone. You can seek support and guidance from various sources, such as mentors, coaches, peers, or friends. You can also join online or offline communities that share your interests, values, or goals. You can also read books, articles, or blogs that offer tips, advice, or inspiration. The more you connect with others who can help you, the more likely you are to achieve your goals and enjoy your late career stage.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?