Embracing Values Over Resolutions for a More Meaningful New Year

Every year, millions of people set New Year’s resolutions with hopes of improving their lives. Yet, by mid-year, or even a few weeks later, many find those goals abandoned or forgotten. What if there was a better way to approach the new year? One that leads to deeper satisfaction and lasting change? Instead of focusing on specific goals, shifting attention to personal values can provide a clearer, more meaningful path forward.

Values act as a compass, guiding decisions and behaviours in a way that aligns with who we truly are. This post explores the difference between values and goals, shares insights from psychology on why values matter, and offers a practical tool to help you identify and live your core values in 2026.

Understanding the Difference Between Values and Goals

Many people confuse values with goals, but they serve very different purposes.

• Goals are specific, measurable, and time-bound. Examples include losing a certain number of kilograms, reading 12 books, or saving a certain amount of money. They have a clear finish line.

• Values are the underlying principles or beliefs that shape how you live. Examples include kindness, curiosity, integrity, or balance. Values don’t have an endpoint; they guide ongoing behaviour and choices.

  
  

Goals answer the question: What do I want to achieve?

Values answer the question: Who do I want to be?

Because goals are finite, they can sometimes feel restrictive or disappointing if unmet. Values, on the other hand, provide a steady foundation that supports growth and fulfilment regardless of specific outcomes.

Why Focusing on Values Leads to More Meaningful Change

Dr. Emily Harper, a clinical psychologist specialising in motivation and behaviour change, explains that values create a sense of purpose that fuels sustainable habits. She says:

“When people connect their actions to deeply held values, they experience greater motivation and resilience. Values help individuals navigate setbacks because the focus is on living authentically, not just ticking off a checklist.”

Research supports this view. Studies show that people who clarify their values before setting goals are more likely to stick with positive changes over time. Values-based living encourages self-compassion and flexibility, reducing the all-or-nothing mindset often triggered by traditional resolutions.

How to Identify Your Core Values for 2026

To start living by your values, you first need to identify what matters most to you. Often we have multiple values in different areas of our lives, but we can only focus on one value at a time. It can help to focus on just one value or word to be your guiding lens for 2026. Here are a few ways you might find your Word for 2026:

1. Reflect on Peak Moments

   Think about times when you felt truly fulfilled or proud. What values were present in those moments?

   
   

2. Reflect on the previous year

   What did the previous year have too much of or not enough of? What would you like more of in 2026? If you get to the end of 2026, what would you have liked the year to hold?

   
   

3. Start with things you've already started that feel good

   Perhaps you want 2026 to hold more time with family and you have already started scheduling some family events or activities, or perhaps you've started taking your lunch break at work, depending on what value or lens resonates with you, these activities could be linked to the word 'connection'. For example, taking your lunch break could mean you have time to smile and have some moments with colleagues, and more events with family, means more connection time. Or perhaps these two activities symbolise slowing down, making time for things that matter, in which case your word for 2026 might be 'slowing down'.

   
   

4. Define What Each Value Means to You

   For example, if “balance” is a value, what does balance look like in your daily life? Use the free printable Word for 2026 to list a couple of dot points of how you are already making space for your value, or brainstorm a way you could live this value.

   
   

Living Your Values: Practical Steps and Examples

Once you know your Word for 2026, brainstorm ways to express this word in everyday life. Here are some examples:

• Value: Compassion

Volunteer regularly, practice active listening with friends, or donate to causes you care about.

• Value: Growth

Take a course, read books on topics that interest you, or seek feedback to improve skills.

• Value: Health

Prioritize sleep, prepare nutritious meals, or schedule regular physical activity.

• Value: Connection

Schedule weekly calls with family, join community groups, or plan social activities.

A journal open to a values identification worksheet with a pen and tea cup nearby

Free Printable Template to Discover and Apply Your Values

To help keep your value/word/lens for 2026 top of mind, I’ve created a free printable template for 2026. This template can serve as a prompt to reflect and find a value/word that resonates with you for 2026, and brainstorm some ways you've already started, or want to hold space for in 2026.

You can download the template here: Download Your Free Printable Word for 2026.

Having this printed and handy helps keep your values front and centre, making it easier to make choices that align with who you want to be.

Word for 2026, a free counselling Newcastle printable. This template is a helpful lens to ensure your 2026 holds what you want it to.

Reflecting on Progress and Building Momentum

Take a moment to think about any steps you’ve already taken this year that align with your values. Maybe you’ve:

• Reached out to an old friend, showing your value of connection

• Started a mindfulness practice, reflecting your value of calm or presence

• Said no to something, showing your value of slowing down or regulation

  
  

Recognizing these actions reinforces your commitment and builds confidence. From here, you can plan small, manageable next steps that deepen your values-based living.

Creating a Fulfilling Year Ahead

Choosing values over resolutions shifts the focus from external achievements to internal growth. This approach encourages kindness toward yourself and flexibility in your journey. Instead of feeling pressured to meet rigid goals, you create space to live authentically and meaningfully.

As you move into 2026, remember that values are your steady guide. They help you navigate challenges and celebrate progress, no matter how big or small.

Feeling uncertain on where to start? Get tailored support

If you would like more tailored support around emotional wellbeing, resilience, values and self esteem, reach out for a Newcastle counselling appointment today. It has never been easier to book online for face to face counselling in Newcastle or telehealth.