The Values-Focused vs The Goals-Focused Life

In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), the Values-Focused Life and the Goals-Focused Life represent two distinct approaches to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. While both approaches have their merits, they differ in their underlying principles and emphasis.

◇ Values-Focused Life: The Values-Focused Life in ACT centers around identifying and aligning oneself with personal values. Values are deeply held principles or qualities that individuals find important and meaningful. They represent the qualities of being and doing that individuals want to embody in their lives. In a values-focused approach:

• Identification of values: Individuals are encouraged to explore their values and identify what truly matters to them in different areas of life, such as relationships, work, personal growth, and health.
• Living in alignment: Once values are clarified, individuals strive to live their lives in alignment with these values. Actions and choices are guided by the question, "What can I do to honor my values in this situation?"
• Psychological flexibility: Emphasis is placed on cultivating psychological flexibility, which involves being present in the moment, accepting internal experiences (thoughts, emotions), and taking committed action towards values, even in the presence of discomfort or obstacles.

The Values-Focused Life encourages individuals to orient themselves towards a sense of purpose and meaning, seeking to create a life that reflects their core values.

◇ Goals-Focused Life: The Goals-Focused Life, on the other hand, revolves around setting and pursuing specific goals. Goals are the desired outcomes or achievements individuals strive to attain. In a goals-focused approach:

• Goal setting: Individuals are encouraged to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals in various domains of life.
• Goal pursuit: Efforts are directed towards planning, organizing, and executing actions that lead to the achievement of those goals.
• Problem-solving and action-oriented: The focus is on identifying obstacles, developing strategies, and taking action to overcome challenges that arise in the pursuit of goals.

The Goals-Focused Life emphasizes the importance of clear objectives and structured action plans to accomplish desired outcomes.

It's important to note that ACT does not advocate for a rigid dichotomy between values and goals. Rather, it encourages individuals to integrate both approaches, recognizing that goals can serve as stepping stones towards living a values-based life. The emphasis in ACT is on flexible goal pursuit guided by one's core values, ensuring that the pursuit of goals remains meaningful and aligned with a person's values and overall well-being.