Step One: Discover Your Purpose
This process will provide distinct direction, identify short-term and long-term goals, and will be a great evaluation instrument for accountability. Your purpose statement will contribute meaning and significance to everything you do. It simplifies all decision making because all choices are based on your purpose.
The bridge between what you want to do and taking action is having a definite purpose. The purpose you write should evoke passion for living the life you were meant to live. Your purpose statement should connect with the passion that provides a compelling reason to live a higher life. You can only make a difference in the decisions you make, goals you set, and your achievements when you apply your purpose statement to everything you do.
The following guidelines will help you complete the first step; create a written purpose statement?
1. Think of a quote, or verse from a song or poem that inspires you. Think of a phrase or saying you use to get you through a situation. Use this guiding principle as an anchor. Examples: with God all things are possible; what does not kill you makes you stronger; and give back to the community.
2. Think of all the different roles you play in life, where and how you spend most of your time, and what interests occupy your thoughts.
Roles I play . . .
I spend my time . . .
My interests include . . .
3. Write down interests that are common throughout all major areas of your life. Examples: time spent helping others, teaching, and learning.
From the list of interests, sort out the gifts and talents you have been blessed with. These are the strengths you will need to fulfill your purpose. These gifts will help you sustain and maintain your pursuit of a purposeful living. Examples: teaching, inspiring, leading.
4. Who do you look up to and admire, such as role models and mentors? Who do you hang around? You are an average of the five people you hang around most. Do you live vicariously through certain people and stand in awe of their achievements? It is okay to look up to mentors you admire to help you discover the truths of life that have already stood the test of time. What qualities do they possess that you admire most?
5. Write down your strongest character traits-some may be the same or similar to your gifts listed in Step 3 or qualities of others listed in Step 4. The characteristics on this list must be those you already possess; they need to be identified as useful tools in achieving a purposeful life.
Strongest character traits . .
6. Make a three part outline to give your statement clarity.
7. Write a rough draft and polish. If you draw a blank, begin with writing your mission statement with “I believe . . . . “
8. Ask a few friends or family members to review and offer feedback. Ask what they liked best and if it was true to who you are.
9. Make any necessary revisions for the final copy.
10. Post the purpose statement in a place you will read it regularly. The best recommendation is to memorize it and you can recite it to serve as a constant reminder to live life purposefully.