10 Ways to Use Your Core Values to Become a Better Writer

If you want to be better at writing then write for your values, not for the publication. Instead, find the publication or topic that best aligns with you. When you write with a focus on core values you truly write from a place of passion. Thoughts and ideas seem to flow in abundance as you sail into success as a writer.

But what are core values? These are the things that you hold most dear. The principles that drive you. We all have a set of core values whether you realise it or not. Some popular examples include lifelong learning, spending time with family, investing in personal wellbeing, and self-development.

1. First, you need to identify your key core values

Spend 10 minutes writing down everything that is important to you. These are your values, but now you need to dive down a little deeper. Do you notice any patterns? Grab those highlights and see if you can organise your values into categories. Do you have more things listed under wellbeing, career, or family? The categories that contain the most topics are your key values and areas in which you could write about.

2. Selecting your top 3 values

You have just 24 hours to live (as morbid as this sounds). What 3 values jump out to you the most? It may still be learning or it could be family. Whatever it is make a note of these. Use these core values as your main ‘tags’ when writing.

3. Research the hashtags

Research your value tags. How popular are they? Do you need to use a tag of another name but the same meaning? Read some articles by the most popular writers using that tag. Learn from them, but ensure you bring your own authentic voice to your writing.

4. Keep your core values close

From adding them into your social media bio to popping them on a sticky note on a computer screen OR even framing them! whatever you choose to do keep them close and refer to them on a regular basis. Every time you write an article check that it aligns with your core values.

5. Review your values regularly

Values can change over time so it’s worth reviewing them every 6 months to a year to see what matters most to you. The best writers are those with high self-awareness, empathy, and a good set of values!

6. Align your writing goals with your core values

If you are the kind of person that likes to set goals then ensure they align with what you care about most. For example, if the family is important to you ensure you plan quality time with them when taking writing breaks or better still include them in your writing and co-produce some articles together.

7. Pick a value

Go back to your main list of values and pick one to write about for a month or even write about different values on different days. Whatever works for you just don’t forget to use those tags.

8. Aligning Posts

Go back over old articles and see if they reflect your values. Do they need updating? Are these articles still relevant and fit with the direction you want to go in?

9. Sharing Personal Story

Write an article or post that tells your audience about your core values and why these are important to you. Make a commitment to ensure you write with these in mind. This will help hold you accountable.

10. Ask for Feedback

As a writer don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your readers. This will enable you to take your writing to the next level and ensure you stay on track and true to yourself.

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