WM2: Values Card Sort
Virtual Coach
Work step-by-step through the Know What Matters exercise with the virtual coach.
Introduction
Fast‑forward to your 80th birthday. A close friend stands up, clinks a glass, and celebrates the life you’ve lived. What do they say? How do you hope people describe you when the candles hit eight‑zero? 80th Birthday Speech uses future‑self perspective to surface legacy values—traits and contributions you want remembered long after résumé lines fade.
Instructions
80th-Birthday Toast — Guided Values Exercise
Goal: Imagine your 80th-birthday celebration to uncover core values through the words others would speak about you.
Steps
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Set the Scene (1 min)
- What it means: Close eyes; picture 80th-birthday venue—who’s there, vibe, décor.
- Concrete example: Family-style patio, string lights, grandkids.
- Quick tip: Soft instrumental music aids immersion.
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Choose the Speaker (30 sec)
- What it means: Pick one person who truly knows you (friend, partner, mentee).
- Concrete example: College roommate “Sam.”
- Quick tip: Avoid picking a critic—choose supportive voice.
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Free-Write Speech (7 min)
- What it means: In their voice, write a 2–3-minute toast: stories, traits, impact. No editing yet.
- Concrete example: Sam praises “integrity,” story of you mentoring interns.
- Quick tip: Keep pen moving—silence inner editor.
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Mine for Values (2 min)
- What it means: Highlight words/phrases that sound like values (Integrity, Adventure, Kindness).
- Concrete example: Circle “loyal,” “curious,” “courage.”
- Quick tip: Look for repeated adjectives or story morals.
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Rank Top Three (1 min)
- What it means: Choose 3 values that spark “Yes—that’s me at my best.”
- Concrete example: 1) Integrity, 2) Curiosity, 3) Compassion.
- Quick tip: Use gut check: which feels non-negotiable?
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Record & Replay (Optional 90 sec)
- What it means: Read the toast aloud; record on phone; play back. Notice emotional hits—those confirm core values.
- Concrete example: Tear up when hearing “stood up for the voiceless.”
- Quick tip: Voice cracks = value resonance—underline it.
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Pick a 24-Hour Action (30 sec)
- What it means: Decide one bite-size act to live Value #1 today.
- Concrete example: Integrity → email feedback you’ve avoided.
- Quick tip: Calendar it within next 24 hrs—momentum matters.
Worksheet & Virtual Coach
FAQs
I can’t picture myself at 80—too far!
Drop to 60th birthday or retirement roast; any future tribute works if it feels vivid.
Speech ends up negative—what then?
Great data. Flip each regret into a desired value (e.g., “worked too much” → Balance).
Can I choose multiple speakers?
Start with one to keep voice clear; add others later for richer cross-check.
Do I share the speech?
Optional. Sharing can boost commitment, but keep private if that feels safer.
How often to redo?
Annually or after life events (graduation, parenthood, career change) to catch evolving values.
Disclaimer
If you have any behavioral health questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare or mental health care provider. This article is supported by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from behavioral health societies and governmental agencies. However, it is not a substitute for professional behavioral health advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
