Values in the age of Coronavirus

I harp on my clients to constantly evaluate what their values are. I’m sure it’s annoying but I’m ok with that. I’m not a “find your why” proponent, I don’t think that’s necessary for enacting change and can prolong contemplation rather than spark action. But identifying your values is a back door into understanding what drives you.

This practice can be difficult and trying. We battle with what we think people want to hear, what will make us look virtuous, how we wish to be viewed. It is a practice in radical acceptance and self awareness. It will force you to truly look at yourself and who you are.

I’ve found that this pandemic made my values abundantly clear. One simple question has brought them to the forefront; “how are you doing?” or in NYC “You good?”

My answer, and the answer that many in my social circle have given me, is simple. “Sarah and I are healthy, still working and still training.”

That simple question answered something that I could have sat and pondered for years. Now, I am pretty honest with myself and I probably would have answered that question the exact same six months ago but the ease at which it arrived was somewhat jarring. I value my family, their health, my work, and my training. I feel wealthy when all of those boxes are checked.

To some, acknowledgment that lifting weights is something I deeply value might seem superficial but that’s on them. Training my body is part of my health and relationships and my work. It actually transcends my other values by touching each and every one of them. It helps me to be a better husband and coach and contributes to my overall health. And that makes it not just a value but valuable.

This is a brutally difficult time. I am privileged to have all of these boxes checked. Not everyone is. But asking yourself that simple question might be what leads you to a complex answer. So I’m asking, you good?