Why every leader needs a PERSONAL MISSION STATEMENT…
Much like an organization’s mission statement, a well-thought-out, written, PERSONAL mission statement is your path to creating your own definition of LIFE and LEADERSHIP SUCCESS.
A personal mission statement becomes the framework for…
- WHO you want to BE
- HOW you want to show up in the world
- WHAT you want to leave as your impact – your ‘why’
In 2008, when I wrote MY personal mission statement, it became the catalyst that launched me into a career where my NATURAL GIFTS, PASSION, and EXPERTISE intersected the needs in the marketplace.
It gave me a new standard by which to measure my vocational decisions.
And, I became the BEST VERSION OF MYSELF. And in turn, that allowed me to empower others (including my own children) to do the same.
To begin the process of developing your own personal mission statement, take the time to do some self-inquiry.
Ponder the following questions:
- If every job in the world paid the same, what would you most want to do?
- What gets you out of bed in the morning?
- What situations, events, circumstances or activities inspire your best work or feelings of great satisfaction?
- Ask those closest to you personally and professionally) to share what they see as your areas of natural giftings, strengths, and passions (how others describe who you are and what you do can be very eye-opening).
- What setbacks have you experienced, how did you navigate them, and what did they teach you?
- What are you most passionate about changing or improving in the world?
- Is there a legacy you most want to leave behind? What is it?
Your personal mission is something to be ‘discovered’ rather than prescribed.
It is important to explore and catalog life and leadership situations and experiences – to look for themes and patterns that will give you clues to YOUR personal mission.
As an example, here is what my personal mission statement ended up being in 2008 – and it still holds true for me today:
“I believe God put me on earth to equip, encourage, and empower others to be their best and reach their full potential.”
This mission is at the core of and motivation for everything I do personally and professionally.
Now, it’s YOUR TURN!
Consider the questions above and write the first draft of your personal mission statement. Schedule a call with us if you want to learn more.