312: Conscious Values vs. Fear-Based Values: Making Decisions That Truly Align

Have you ever felt torn between competing priorities—wanting to excel at work while also being present for your family, or saying "yes" to helping everyone even when you're overwhelmed? The tension you feel may not be because your values are unclear, but because they're competing with one another.

In this solo coaching episode, Mallory Erickson explores the difference between conscious-based values and fear-based values, and why understanding that distinction can transform the way you make decisions. She explains why it's impossible to express all of your core values all the time, and how consciously choosing which value to prioritize in a given moment can reduce guilt, overwhelm, and decision paralysis.

Mallory also introduces a powerful coaching exercise that helps uncover whether a value is truly yours or if it's being driven by fear, people-pleasing, or external expectations. Through practical examples and thoughtful reflection, she invites listeners to examine the beliefs underneath their values so they can make more intentional choices in both fundraising and life.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Identify your core personal values.

Understand why your values naturally compete with one another.

Reduce guilt when you can't honor every value simultaneously.

Recognize the difference between conscious-based and fear-based values.

Identify fear-based beliefs that influence your decisions.

Practice converting fear-driven values into conscious choices.

Make decisions with greater clarity and intention.

Build a values-based approach to fundraising and leadership.