Values
The principles and qualities that matter most to you — the compass that guides authentic living.
- Term
- Values
- Category
- Core Concept
- Related Concepts
- Authenticity, Integrity, Purpose, Conscious Choice, Responsibility, Freedom
- Level
- Beginner
What Values Mean
Values are the principles and qualities that matter most to you — the inner compass that guides your choices, actions, and how you want to live. Unlike goals, values are never finished; you do not achieve a value, you live it. In Maya Mandala's system, values are a core part of self-knowledge. When you know what you truly value, you can make decisions from clarity rather than from obligation or fear.In Simple Terms
Your values are what matter most to you — not what you think should matter, but what actually guides you when no one is watching.What This Means for Your Practice
- values are lived, not achieved — they cannot be completed or checked off
- they reveal what is authentic to you — not what you were taught to value
- they are a compass — when you are lost, values show you the direction
- they require honesty — you must be willing to see when your choices do not match your values
- they change — values can shift as you grow and deepen in self-knowledge.
Common Misconceptions
Your values are fixed forever once identified
The text states explicitly that values can shift and change as you grow and deepen in self-knowledge.
Values are the same as what you were taught you should value
The text distinguishes lived values from taught ones explicitly — they reveal what is authentic to you, not what you were told to value.
Related Concepts
In Maya Mandala's Self-Discovery Dictionary, this concept connects to other terms:
The Takeaway
Your values are not what you say matters — they are what your choices reveal. Living by them is the foundation of integrity.
If you looked at your last week's choices, what would they say you value?
No need to answer. Just notice what arises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are values in simple terms?
They are the principles and qualities that matter most to you — your internal compass for how you want to live.
How are values different from goals?
Goals can be completed. Values are lived continuously. You do not achieve honesty — you practice it every day.
How do I discover my values?
Notice what feels wrong when it is violated. Notice what brings you a sense of meaning. Your values are already active — you just need to see them.
How does Maya Mandala work with values?
Through self-inquiry and awareness practices that help you distinguish between conditioned values and what is actually true for you.
Can values change?
Yes. As you grow in self-knowledge, your values may deepen or shift. What matters is that they remain honest.
Programs for Deep Inner Work
Practices that help you approach this topic with awareness.
Unfolding Your Abilities
Developing awareness, intuition, and the ability to see the whole picture.
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Mandala Dance. Level 1
A retreat exploring embodied movement, presence, and creative expression through Maya's signature Mandala Dance method.
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