ACT Values Bullseye Worksheet

Clinical Application and Rationale

The Bullseye model is effective because it simplifies a core ACT process: tracking behavior in relation to values rather than internal experiences.

Many clients evaluate themselves based on how they feel (“I’m anxious, so I’m failing”) or what they think (“I’m not good enough”). The Bullseye shifts the frame:

• What direction is your behavior moving in?
• Is it closer to, or further from, the life you want to build?

This distinction is clinically significant. It reinforces that values-consistent action can occur in the presence of discomfort, which is central to psychological flexibility.

The scaling element (e.g., 1–5 or near vs. far from the “bullseye”) serves two purposes:

• It operationalizes abstract values into measurable behavior
• It allows for progress tracking over time without relying on symptom reduction alone

Because of its visual and intuitive structure, the Bullseye is particularly useful with clients who struggle with insight-heavy or language-heavy interventions.

How the Worksheet Works in Practice

The worksheet is typically completed in two passes.

Step 1: Define Direction

Clients identify what kind of person they want to be within each domain (e.g., “present and supportive partner,” “engaged and curious learner”). This anchors the work in values rather than outcomes.

Step 2: Rate Current Alignment

Clients then assess where their current behavior falls relative to that direction. The “bullseye” represents values-consistent living; outer rings reflect increasing distance from those values.

This gap—between intention and behavior—becomes the focal point for intervention.

Where It Fits Clinically

This tool is not just a values exercise—it functions as a behavioral assessment.

It is particularly useful for:

• Identifying avoidance patterns across life domains
• Highlighting inconsistencies between stated values and daily behavior
• Supporting treatment planning focused on committed action
• Monitoring progress in ACT over time

Because it avoids pathologizing language, it can also reduce defensiveness and increase engagement.

Observed Outcomes With Repeated Use

Over time, clinicians often see:

• Increased awareness of behavior-value discrepancies
• Reduced reliance on mood as a decision-making driver
• Greater consistency in small, values-based actions
• Improved ability to re-engage after setbacks
• A shift from outcome-focused thinking to process-based living

Importantly, progress is defined directionally—not by perfection, but by movement toward what matters.

Integration Tips for Clinicians

• Use the Bullseye early to establish a behavioral baseline.
• Revisit it periodically to track directional change.
• Pair it with committed action planning to translate insight into behavior.
• Avoid over-interpreting scores—focus on patterns, not precision.
• Link movement toward the bullseye with willingness to experience discomfort.

References

• Lundgren, T., Luoma, J. B., Dahl, J., Strosahl, K., & Melin, L. (2012). The Bull’s-Eye Values Survey: A psychometric evaluation. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 19(4), 518–526.
• Polk, K. L., Schoendorff, B., Webster, M., & Olaz, F. (2016). The Essential Guide to the ACT Matrix: A Step-by-Step Approach to Using the ACT Matrix Model in Clinical Practice. New Harbinger Publications.
• Wilson, K. G., & Murrell, A. R. (2004). Values work in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Setting a course for behavioral treatment. In S. C. Hayes, V. M. Follette, & M. M. Linehan (Eds.), Mindfulness and Acceptance: Expanding the Cognitive-Behavioral Tradition. Guilford Press.