Here’s Why Your Beliefs Matter

Do you know what you believe?

I know this may sound like an obvious question, but go with me. Do you know your core values regarding morals, spirituality, work, family, relationships, and other important things in life? We should all realize that a clear definition of our beliefs is a vital step in moving from living in constant frustration or disappointment to living the life we want for ourselves. I have watched people bounce from job to job and relationship to relationship, all the while not understanding that with one simple gesture, they could help change the pattern of their life by choosing to define their beliefs. Sure, you may say, “I know what I believe”. But do you really know what you believe, or do you move back and forth between varying beliefs depending on the current circumstance you find yourself in?

Our beliefs act as a compass in times of uncertainty or stress. So, what do you believe and why? If we don’t know what we believe, then we will likely be tossed back and forth and our standards and quality of life will suffer. This will lead to frustration, lack of fulfillment, and ultimately regret. Don’t let it happen to you!

Defining your beliefs isn’t a complicated process. It will just require a little time and focus. Examine the things you value most in life; the things that drive you to act and behave in a particular way. Look at the different areas in your life: family, career, ethics, relationships, etc. As you begin to intentionally focus on defining your beliefs and uncover why you believe them, they will solidify in your mind and heart, and articulating them will become second nature.

Knowing what you believe will allow you to be the one in control of what you value in life, and ultimately, where you spend your time, energy, and money. You will be the one dictating your beliefs as new ones come along and older ones morph and grow. But in order to defend your beliefs, you have to know why you put stock in them. So, along with defining your beliefs you need to define your “why” for each one of them.

For example, I believe in putting my family above my career, because my family will be the greatest indicator of success in my life. When I’m faced with a decision to compromise family for my career, I can come back to this “why” and make a decision from a place that aligns with my beliefs.

Make time today to start thinking about what you believe and why. Write it down and continually ponder your beliefs as you experience more and grow in life.

Chris CapehartComment