Developing Purpose

We’ve all heard about mission statements. In my experience, these mission or purpose statements can lead us to achieve our priorities in life. Searching for direction at the age of 35, I first understood this concept in 1992 when reading “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” by Stephen Covey. Covey wondered if there were similarities between the most effective people in his circle of friends and associates. He recognized principles that exist when high achieving people do to be successful. One of those things is “begin with the end in mind.” This is the art of understanding what one wants to achieve while taking up space on planet Earth. In other words, what do you want to achieve, who do you want to please, where do you want to spend your life, who do you want to spend it with, what relationships do want to be a part, what impact do you want to have in your work and ultimately, how do want to be remembered? While this list is not exhaustive, these questions matter if we are to live a life of purpose. It is my belief that without a road map and a compass, we simply will not arrive at the desired destination. Since 1992, I’ve written a purpose statement that has guided my life. I also resolved to start journaling. After several years of journaling, I looked back with keen interest on my first writing and found my very first mission statement. I should not have been surprised that I discovered I was living this mission! This first statement was focused on my leadership competency and relationships with people. My wife, Karen, and I have a purpose statement to this very day. If you do not have a purpose statement, you absolutely need one.

I have a variety of experience in helping people develop their ideas around purpose. This is an area where I can help. If you have a purpose statement, it would be very helpful for me to know as your coach.