Application of the Fifth Secret

Begin a value system.

Pretend you are a corporation. Write out a mission statement for yourself. This can be as complex or as simple as you like. What sorts of words did you include? Exclude? Think about how you incorporate this into your life. Is it a true reflection of your value system? If your value system is merely the pursuit of money, why is that? If your value system is based on love, do your actions reflect that? Do you love your job? If not, then reflect on if you are really integrating your value system.

This is an extension of making thoughtful actions, and looking at what your actions are based on. Happiness is achievable when life flows well. If one aspect of life is wonderful, like your home life, but you interrupt that each day for nine hours or more with an unhappy work environment, then the flow in the brook is halted. The goal here is to identify any obstacles in the brook, and begin to think of ways to change course, or to smooth the waters. Your values are the oars you should be rowing with. See if you can match your values to each of the core values under the fifth secret.