What is the Mission?

“When we know WHY we do what we do, everything falls into place.  When we don’t, we have to push things into place.”  – Simon Sinek, author

Every organization should have a mission statement.  It is often found on their website or printed in their handbook.  However, in most organizations, a majority of team members are unable to vocalize the mission statement.

In great organizations, you can walk up to any member of the organization, inquire about the mission statement, and they will proudly tell you.  The organization lives out their mission each day through each decision it makes, proving the value of their mission to their employees, their customers, and their community.  That’s what makes them a great organization to work for, and a great organization to have in the community.  The team members do not have to wonder WHY a decision was made; they can see that it clearly points back to the mission of the organization.  The organization’s leaders clearly enunciate how decisions point back to the mission.  Each team member strives to be on task for the same mission if they choose to be employed with the organization.  Even when there are speed bumps in the road, it appears everything runs smoothly because everyone is working for the same mission.

Just like organizations, individuals should have their own personal mission statement, or life purpose.  Something that guides them through making decisions in their life.  To create your mission statement, you start by assessing your values.  Then identify the contributions (skills & talents) that have brought you fulfillment.  Lastly, look toward the goals (passions & purpose) that inspire you.  I work with individuals routinely to help them develop personal mission statements.

Once you have created a personal mission statement, you can use it to help you make decisions to live a more fulfilling life……  Does this career change fit into my life purpose?  What response in this situation best reflects my life purpose?  How well did I live my life purpose through my choices today?  What could I do differently to live out my life purpose?

If you would like to explore more about your life purpose, reaching fulfillment and living on mission,

Wishing you the best as you take your next steps toward having a Professional Edge.