In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), values refer to the core principles and beliefs that guide our actions and give meaning to our lives. These values might include things like compassion, honesty, connection, or adventure, and they are often based on what we care about most deeply.

In ACT, values are not just abstract ideas; rather, they are the foundation for how we want to live our lives. By identifying our values and making them the focus of our attention and behaviour, we can create a sense of purpose and direction that can help us to cope with difficult thoughts and feelings.

To exercise perspective and choice in living with our chosen values, it’s important to first identify what our values are. This might involve exploring different areas of life, such as relationships, work, health, or personal growth, and asking ourselves what is most important to us in each area.

Once we have identified our values, we can use them to guide our actions and make choices that are consistent with them. This might involve setting goals that align with our values, or making decisions that are in line with what we care about most deeply.

It’s also important to remember that our values may change over time, and that it’s okay to revisit them and adjust our goals and actions accordingly. By staying connected to our values and using them as a guide, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life, even in the face of difficult thoughts and feelings.