Wintergarden & values

Helsinki, 2 degrees

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It's not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.

Wow, what a week! During this week I've done some 10 hours of overtime work which has been exciting but also naturally tiring. I've been happy over getting positive feedback on my work from work related partners, seeing that some plans for next year have proceeded and hearing that I'll get a new work phone! Yey! How has your week been?

I've been inspired by this amazing editorial called "Wintergarden" about finding magic beneath waters, realized by Beth Mitchell and Begitta. The striking editorial photos, each with its own source of inspiration and fantastic story behind it, seem carved out from a distant, enchanting and undisturbed universe.

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According to Fashionising the inspiration for “Wintergarden” came along the lines of the red and white ghostly beauty, interpreted via the whimsical, yet hauntingly beautiful hair and make-up envisioned by Kellie McCallum. The striking visual experience was further enhanced by the simplistic and ethereal white gowns and floral head pieces designed by Begitta to complement the unearthly quality of the underwater photo shoot. So hold your breath and dive right in.

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The magic of these images got me reflecting over my values since they have been on my mind this week and can sometimes cause an obstacle for finding magic in everyday life. What are values?

The definition of the word says they are important and lasting beliefs or ideals shared by the members of a culture about what is good or bad and desirable or undesirable. Values have major influence on a person's behavior and attitude and serve as broad guidelines in all situations. Some common business values are fairness, innovation and community involvement. However, I've noticed that values are quite personal at the same time. In fact, I think they are more the link that tie together personal perceptions and judgements, motives and actions.

I believe that everyone has a personal value system, which is shaped by upbringing and life experiences. Most values develop early on and stick with us through life, and it's difficult to change this value system.

If you feel like me that you're not happy with your current value system and think it's leading you in the wrong direction, it may be time to look at these values and consider working toward changing them. It's not enough to just think about changing - you'll need to work hard to change these core values.

Here's a helpful list on how to change core values, found on Ehow

1) List all the values that are the most important to you.
2) Write the answers to this series of questions, suggested by counselor and life coach Frances Todd, for each of these values to determine which ones you want to change:

Is this something that's important to you? Do you feel good about this being important to you? Would you feel good if people you respect knew this was important to you? Have you ever done anything that indicates that this is important to you? Is this something you would stand by even if others made fun of you for it? Does this fit with your vision of who you are?

3) Divide your list of values into two columns to separate the values you want to keep from those you would like to change, based on the questions you just answered. Amend these values or add new ones so they reflect what you now believe.
4) Use your new values when making decisions in response to life experiences. For example, if one of your new values is "adaptability," adapt to the situation the next time something doesn't go the way you think it should.
5) Create opportunities to practice your new values.

Have you ever tried to change some of your values? Please give me hints on how to do so!


What's your opinion?

  1. Can I just say that I love your header? Gorgeous! And these pictures are fabulous. This post has definitely given me a lot to think about!
    the-creationofbeauty.blogspot.com

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    1. Thank you Shannon for your support, it means a lot to me!

      xxx
      E

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  2. I think I have.. for example I used to be a HUGE spender and spent pretty much all the money I got from my (grand)parents. but then, after my university years I got my first official job and started to earn my own money. and things changed. now I pretty much always purchase discounted stuff or thrifted stuff but before the change I bought many incredibly pointless full-priced things (mostly clothes but also other stuff). living on my own in my own house has changed a lot. actually I have changed a lot in other aspects too. the person I used to be and the person I now am are very different, to be honest. my values have changed a lot and that's because of all the life lessons I've experienced. btw, I was super surprised when I got those goodies from you and I have read some chapters and can totally see "you" in those writings :)

    Maiken,
    Maikeni blogi - part of me

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    1. Wow, it would be wonderful to hear more about how your values have changed and the life lessons you've learned.
      I'm happy you liked the brochure+map, it was meant to be a surprise for you, heheh. Thank you for your super kind words concerning the brochure!

      xxx
      E

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