How to Be Awesome at Your Job 1118: Finding Consistent Motivation to Turn Intention into Action with Chris Bailey
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Jan 8, 2026 
In this insightful discussion, Chris Bailey, an author focused on productivity and intentional living, unpacks the science of motivation through the lens of values. He reveals 12 core values that drive our actions and explains how aligning goals with these values can boost motivation. Chris introduces the concept of an 'intention stack,' discussing how to manage resistance to action and transform tasks into manageable steps. With practical tips like weekly reviews and his preferred productivity tools, he makes the path to achieving intentions clear and actionable.
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Twelve Core Values Drive Behavior
- There are 12 core values that motivate virtually everything we do, validated across many countries by Shalom Schwartz's research.
- These values sit on axes of self vs others and conserve vs improve, shaping our intentions and behavior.
Values Fall On Two Motivation Axes
- Values map into two axes: enriching self vs others and conserving vs improving.
- Every action fits one or more values, so knowing your top values explains what motivates you.
Build Goals From Top Values
- Identify your top two values and build goals around them, then review those goals weekly.
- Edit, drop, or reframe goals so they align with your values and schedule bite-sized time blocks to make progress.
