Values vs Goals - By Dr. Russ Harris
In this engaging short video from Dr Russ Harris (author of The Happiness Trap), he explores the distinction between living a goals-focused life versus one guided by values. Through clear examples and gentle humour, Dr Harris shows why goals, with their fixed finish lines, often fall short, whereas values act as a daily compass, shaping how we live every moment.
What You’ll Learn:
The difference between goals (specific outcomes like “get that job” or “buy a house”) and values (ongoing ways of being like “showing compassion” or “being present”).
Why living according to values tends to lead to richer, more meaningful experiences, even if goals remain out of reach.
How values remain grounding during setbacks and can promote psychological flexibility and resilience.
Why It Matters:
This video invites you to shift from outcome-chasing to values-aligned living, a shift that nurtures sustainable motivation, deeper connection, and a life lived with integrity.
Suggested Use
No special equipment needed - just your attention.
Watch when you feel stuck chasing goals or questioning what truly matters.
Reflect: Which goals are driving me? What values do I want to live by daily?
Follow-Up & Additional Resources
If this resonated, you might like to explore:
Dr Russ Harris’ “The Choice Point” (ACT tool video in our library) for learning how to take actions aligned with values.
Our therapy sessions, where daily living aligns with values like presence, connection, and flow.
Reflection Invitation
Pair this video with a reflection prompt or worksheet:
List three values you want to embody daily.
Think of one goal that doesn’t align - could it be reframed or released?
What small, values-aligned step could you take today?
