Shared values can mean a more fulfilling relationship

Dr. John Demartini is a leading authority in human behavior and leadership development.

We all want true love, whether we're aware of it or not. However, when we're in a relationship, we often think the other person is supposed to be like us; but if any two people are exactly the same, one of them is unnecessary. Each person has his or her own unique set of values and no two people have the same set. Each person expresses love through his or her own values. How do you identify your and your partner's values? Ask yourself the following questions. Make sure your answers are what your life truly demonstrates.

1. What do you fill your space with?

Have a look at what you have in your office or in your home and see what you display in your most valued space.

2. How do you spend your time?

We always allocate time for things that are important to us, so our days are divided up with our priorities. If something is not important we keep putting it off until tomorrow.

3. How do you spend your energy?

You always have energy for things that inspire you. Have a look at where you feel most vital and enthused in your day-to-day activities.

4. What do you spend your money on?

You will feel reluctant to spend money on things you perceive as unimportant. If something means something to you, you will always figure a way to pay for it.

5. Where are you most organized?

Everyone has areas of order and areas of disorder in their lives. The things that are important to you, you will spend time organizing.

6. Where you are most disciplined and reliable?

If something is important to you, you will be dedicated to doing it.

7. What do you think about or focus on most?

Your mind will always focus on the things that mean something to you. You may be distracted by a phone call or a television program but your mind will constantly wander back to the area of highest importance.

8. What do you envision or dream about most?

What you envision and dream about will be in alignment with what is important to you.

9. What do you internally dialogue about most (what you talk to yourself about most)?

We all speak to ourselves and we dialogue internally about what is most important to us.

10. What do you externally dialogue about most?

Every person wants to communicate what is most important to him. If someone discusses something we don't want to hear, we will try to change the conversation to what is important to us.

11. What are you inspired about most?

We are inspired by the areas of life that mean something to us, so if we value children, then we will be inspired by what children do. If we value business then we will be inspired by achievements in business.

12. What do you set goals towards most?

We will be willing to stretch towards goals that have meaning for us.