The step-by-step guide to a values-based life

“Start with Values” provides a compass that can help you navigate the complexities of modern life.  It will help you find your north star, your purpose, as well as yourself.  If leading a worthy life matters to you, and I suspect it does, I recommend you start with this book.

Tal Ben-Shahar, PhD
New York Times Bestselling author of Happier, No Matter What
Teacher of two of the largest classes in Harvard University’s history

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About the Book

Start With Values is designed to help you uncover the values that define you and provide a framework for living in alignment with them. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, actionable steps, and insightful research, Bradley Hook brings a fresh perspective to personal development.

Whether you are seeking to enhance your career, improve relationships, or find inner peace, this book provides the tools and inspiration to get there.

Inside the book YOU WILL DISCOVER

🧪 The science and history of core values

🪞 How to discover and clarify your values

🌀 How to build values-based habits

🤔 Values-based decision-making

💬 How to articulate your values (including courageous conversations)

👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨 Family and relationship values

🏢 Co-creating and leveraging workplace values

🌏 Collective values, like nature stewardship

💫 Stories, examples, and much more!

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Overview of Start With Values by Bradley Hook

Start With Values opens with a personal narrative, tracing author Bradley Hook’s journey from childhood in South Africa to his evolution as an technologist, adventurer, author, podcaster, speaker, and human behavior expert.

These experiences underscore the importance of core values in navigating life’s challenges and finding fulfillment.

Core Themes

1. Defining Values:
   • The book explores the concept of values, their origins, and their significance in shaping our lives.
   • It differentiates values from morals, beliefs, and purpose, emphasizing that values are the foundational principles guiding our decisions and actions.
2. The Importance of Values:
   • Values act as an internal compass, providing clarity and direction amidst life’s complexities.
   • Living in alignment with one’s values leads to greater fulfillment, reduced stress, and overall happiness.
3. The Values Pyramid:
   • Hook introduces the Values Pyramid, a hierarchical model illustrating how values shift based on context and contribute to fulfillment.
   • The pyramid ranges from survival values at the base (security, food, shelter) to fulfillment values at the peak (meaning, gratitude, connection).
4. Discovering and Applying Values:
   • The book provides practical tools and exercises to help readers identify their core values.
   • It encourages using values to guide decision-making, set micro-habits, and navigate life’s pressures.
5. Values in Different Contexts:
   • The application of values in personal identity, decision-making, mindfulness practices, rituals, and environments is discussed.
   • Hook delves into the impact of values on relationships, family dynamics, workplace culture, and community engagement.

What You Will Learn

• Defining Your Values: Understand the importance of core values and learn how to identify them through reflective exercises and real-life examples.
• Living Your Values: Discover practical strategies to incorporate your values into daily life, from decision-making to goal-setting.
• Overcoming Challenges: Learn how to navigate life’s obstacles while staying true to your values, using resilience and adaptability.
• Building a Fulfilling Life: Explore how values-driven living leads to greater fulfillment, happiness, and overall well-being.

Key Features

• Actionable Insights: Each chapter is packed with practical advice and exercises to help you apply the concepts to your own life.
• Research-Based Approach: The book combines insights from psychology, neuroscience, and positive psychology to provide a well-rounded understanding of values-driven living.
• Inspirational Stories: Real-life stories and examples illustrate the transformative power of living in alignment with your values.