Character Values Wheel

As writers, we live to answer one question: Why? Why does the hero rescue the cat? Why does the villain crave that throne? Why does a mentor sacrifice everything for a cause?

The answer is always rooted in what a character values. But defining those values can feel abstract. Could there be a universal model to map the landscape of human motivation?

Probably not. But by drawing from foundational psychology and moral theory, we can create a framework that is useful for writing fiction. This Character Values Wheel is that framework. It's a map to your character's soul, designed to help you discover their deepest motivations, create powerful conflicts, and build unforgettable character arcs.