Summer Core Values Garage Sale
- Walter McKenzie
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
This is an enhanced version of Heather's "How to Conduct an Educational Garage Sale" resource on xSELeratED earlier this spring, in response to an educator request for an updated edition focusing on core values. Thank you for keeping this important resource fresh and responsive to the needs of our community, Heather! You can contact Heather here.
Summer Core Values Garage Sale
A Comprehensive Guide to Mindful Living and Intentional Reset
In the heat of the season, cool off by taking some time for deep reflection around your personal and professional core values this summer. This activity will help you reflect on your habits, commitments, and routines through the lens of your core values, and decide what to keep, adjust, or release. This is a practice of self-compassion and growth to declutter your mindset, reconnect with purpose, and start the new season with intention!
Pre-Activity Preparation (10 minutes)
Materials Needed:
Large wall space or table
Sticky notes in 5 different colors (or index cards with colored markers)
Fine-tip markers or pens
Timer
Journal or notebook
Step 1: Deep Core Values Discovery (15 minutes)
Initial Reflection (5 minutes)
Start with these foundational questions:
What values do you want to lead with this summer?
What matters most to you right now?
When you feel most aligned and energized, what values are you living?
Expanded Values Exploration (10 minutes)
Consider these additional prompts to deepen your understanding:
Personal Values Reflection:
What values did you inherit from your family that still serve you?
What values have you developed through your own experiences?
Which values feel most urgent or important in this season of your life?
Professional Values Reflection:
What values do you want to embody in your work?
How do you want to show up in professional relationships?
What kind of impact do you want to make through your work?
Sample Core Values Menu: Joy, Growth, Connection, Simplicity, Wellness, Authenticity, Creativity, Adventure, Peace, Service, Excellence, Balance, Courage, Compassion, Freedom, Gratitude, Integrity, Learning, Love, Mindfulness, Purpose, Resilience, Wisdom, Innovation, Community, Sustainability, Curiosity, Generosity, Patience, Presence
Values Prioritization Exercise:
Circle or write down 8-10 values that resonate most deeply
Narrow to your top 5 by asking: "Which of these would I never want to compromise?"
Select your top 3 core values for this summer season
Step 2: Host Your Personal Core Values Garage Sale (25 minutes)
Set up five distinct stations using your colored sticky notes or labeled areas. Spend 5 minutes at each station, then take time to organize and reflect.
Station Setup:
Create clear visual boundaries for each area using different colored sticky notes or sections of your space.
Step 3: Deep Reflection & Reframing (20 minutes)
Individual Reflection Questions
Spend time journaling or reflecting on these questions:
Alignment Assessment:
How do your current commitments align with your core values?
What patterns do you notice across your five stations?
Where do you feel most out of alignment, and why?
Transition Contemplation:
What are you walking away from? How do you feel about this?
What are you walking toward? What excites you most?
What fears or resistance are you noticing about these changes?
Vision Creation:
What does living by your values look and feel like this summer?
How will you know when you're successfully living your values?
What would your most values-aligned day look like?
Discussion Options
If doing this with others, consider discussing:
What surprised you most about your garage sale?
Which station was hardest to fill? Which was easiest?
How can you support each other in making these changes?
What accountability would be helpful?
Step 4: Create Your Summer Value Vision (15 minutes)
Crafting Your Commitment Statement
Use this framework to create a personalized vision:
Template: "This summer, I commit to living with greater [value], [value] and [value]. I will hold onto what nourishes me, tend to what needs care, and let go of what no longer aligns. I am making space for ."
Enhanced Vision Elements
Consider adding these components to strengthen your commitment:
Specific Actions:
Three specific things you'll do to honor each core value
One habit you'll start, one you'll modify, one you'll stop
Weekly or monthly check-ins with yourself
Visual Reminders:
Create a vision board or visual representation
Choose a daily mantra or affirmation
Set phone reminders with your core values
Accountability Measures:
Share your vision with a trusted friend or mentor
Schedule regular reflection sessions
Create measurable goals or milestones
Step 5: Implementation & Integration (Ongoing)
Resources & Support
Common Challenges:
Overwhelm: Start with just one station or one small change
Resistance: Explore the underlying fear or attachment
Perfectionism: Remember this is a practice, not a performance
Lack of support: Consider professional help or trusted friends
When to Seek Additional Support:
If items in your "Toxic Waste" station involve safety concerns
If you're struggling with mental health or addiction issues
If relationship or work changes feel too overwhelming alone
If you need professional guidance for major life transitions
Resources for Ongoing Growth:
Values-based coaching or therapy
Support groups for specific challenges
Books, podcasts, or courses on intentional living
Regular retreats or reflection practices
Reflection Questions for Future Seasons
How did living by your values change your summer experience?
What did you learn about yourself through this process?
Which changes had the most positive impact on your well-being?
How can you maintain this intentional approach year-round?
What would you do differently in your next "garage sale"?
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