Sticking To The Plan: How To Write a Core Purpose
Webster’s dictionary defines purpose as “the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.”
Purpose is something we talk a lot about at TLP. In fact, it drives everything we do. A strong core purpose should inspire, unify and motivate your team members, your stakeholders, and your customer base.
So...if you struggle with “finding your purpose,” you aren’t alone.
Now more than ever, we all want to believe that our day-to-day contributes to the greater good. Cancel culture is quick to dismiss a company that does not align with key values. Employees want to feel proud of where they work. The bottom line is that people can smell bullshit from a mile away —and sometimes from a helluva lot farther. If you want both employees and customers to focus on the good stuff you do, a strong purpose is critical.
The good news is that there are many similarities between a company’s core purpose and its founder’s “zone of genius,” what Gay Hendricks defines as “an activity or way of being that you are uniquely suited to do.” As Hendricks writes in his book, The Big Leap, when you unite your innate gifts with practiced skills, it will not only set you apart, but it should also feel “effortless and creative and just plain good.”
When was the last time you felt that way about your work? And your life?
These five steps will help you find it again—and for both and for good.
Take 10.
Set aside time each day to focus on what you care about most. What legacy do you want to leave behind? What is your main reason for existing and what positive impact can you make on society? Remember that sometimes the simplest actions and activities can make the biggest difference.
Look back.
Examine the trajectory of your company and your life. What works well and what doesn’t? What gets your team excited? What trends are you noticing in your industry? Are there any pain points that your team can solve?
Look ahead.
Developing a moonshot goal can inspire you and your team to dream big. What changes need to happen to make it a reality? Do you need to rethink your core competencies? Reevaluate your organizational structure? Don’t be afraid to shake things up a bit!.
Incorporate purpose into all that you do.
Badass businesses—and lives— are built on a solid foundation. Every task is an extension of that vision. Across the board, there should be no doubt about what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, and how you plan to get it done.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Sometimes we’re a bit too close to our lives and businesses to get that “purposeful perspective.” It can help to ask others what they believe your unique “edge” is. A simple “What made you choose to work with us?” Or a “What do I add to your life?” follow. Be ready to return the favor!
The importance of defining your core purpose cannot be overstated. Make it a priority and you’ll not only provide a clear sense of direction—but you’ll also give others something to believe in. You.
Ready to accelerate your life and business results? Invest in something that will give you a killer ROA—Return on Accountability—and join our Cohort.
Bill covers topics like this (and then some) on LinkedIn all the time—connect and join the conversation!