Values-Based Decision-Making (VBDM) is a dynamic system for decision-making and visioning that encourages us to imagine the future we desire—whether in life, business, or relationships—and identify the values that will guide us toward that future. By using these clarified values as a filter, VBDM helps us evaluate both large and small decisions based on their potential to create the life we envision. Instead of fixating on goals, VBDM shifts the focus to the values we must embody to become the people we aspire to be. This approach challenges the cultural norm of prioritizing goals above all else, which often leads to sacrificing quality of life. Instead, VBDM emphasizes cultivating values that enhance our quality of life while avoiding the endless pursuit of fleeting goals.

Javan K. Bernakevitch, the creator of VBDM, first encountered Allan Savory’s Holistic Management and Holistic Decision Making in 2010. While inspired by Savory’s ideas, Javan found their application—primarily focused on land-based cattle grazing—too narrow to encompass the broader potential of these concepts. Additionally, some elements of the flow and usability of Savory’s system created friction for practitioners.

Dan Palmer, of Very Edible Gardens and later Making Permaculture Stronger, reinterpreted Savory’s work, calling it Holistic Decision Making as well. Dan’s innovative ideas greatly influenced Javan, and their collaboration was formative until Dan’s passing in 2022. Over the past 15 years, Javan has continued to evolve VBDM, working with over 2,000 clients and students to refine it into a versatile, living system.

Javan’s adaptation of VBDM includes several key innovations:

Ongoing Integration of Values: Instead of treating the clarification of values (referred to in Holistic Management as a "Holistic Context") as a one-time or annual task, VBDM promotes the active and consistent use of values on a daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal, and yearly basis. This practice ensures values are deeply embodied and lived.

Refined Visioning Process: VBDM employs visioning exercises designed to distill and challenge values until they truly resonate—what Javan describes as values that "sing" for clients.

Focus on Weak Links: Through the Daily Statement of Reality, VBDM emphasizes identifying and addressing weak links that may hinder progress toward one’s values.

Streamlined Decision-Making Practices: VBDM incorporates both short- and long-form decision-making processes to minimize decision-making friction while maintaining alignment with values.

Collaborative and Evolving Framework: VBDM remains open to innovations and contributions from students and clients, making it a flexible, organic system that evolves with each practitioner’s experience.

By centering on values rather than traditional goals, VBDM offers a grounded yet transformative framework for decision-making and personal growth, fostering a life aligned with what truly matters.