Week 20: How I’ve Built a Life That Reflects My True Values

How I’ve Built a Life That Reflects My True Values: Aligned, Caffeinated, and Content

There was a time when my calendar was full, but my heart felt empty. I was busy, yes—but not with the things that truly mattered to me. Somewhere along the way, I had adopted someone else’s idea of success, and my choices reflected that: the overcommitting, the approval-chasing, the constant “yes” to everything but myself.

But something shifted. Little by little, I began to get curious. What do I really want? What do I actually value? It wasn’t easy—especially coming from a place where people-pleasing had been my comfort zone. But the more I leaned into honesty with myself, the more I began making decisions that honored who I was becoming.

So what do I value now?

• Authenticity — I don’t pretend to be okay when I’m not. I ask for help. I speak up (even when my voice shakes).
• Freedom — I’ve released roles and relationships that made me feel trapped. I’ve learned to say no with love and yes with intention.
• Connection — I prioritize relationships that feel mutual, safe, and kind. I no longer settle for being needed over being valued.
• Joy — I make room for simple pleasures—quiet mornings, books that speak to my soul, laughter that bubbles up from somewhere deep, and lots of coffee.

My life today? It’s not perfect, but it’s mine. My calendar is a lot less crowded, but every choice on it feels aligned. I’ve built a life around my values—not anyone else’s—and that’s a kind of peace I never knew I needed.

What are the values that matter most to you, and how are they showing up in your life today?

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Join me on this blogging challenge. Visit the page and download the PDF. I would love to read your story! 

• Week 20 – Blogging Challenge for Codependency Recovery:
  • Supporting Others Without Losing Myself: Reflect on how to balance compassion with self-care.
• Week 20 – Blogging Challenge for Advanced Codependency Recovery:
  • How I’ve Built a Life That Reflects My True Values: Reflect on the alignment between your values and choices.

#CodependencyChallenge2025