Sometimes, it can feel like we have no idea what we’re doing. We’re constantly busy with different projects, but at the end of the day, we aren’t sure what any of them are leading towards. In other words, it feels like we’re lacking purpose.
If you’ve been feeling this way, a mission statement might be your solution. In this blog, we’ll explain what a mission statement is, its importance, and how to build your own.
What is a mission statement?
Simply put, a mission statement is typically a 1-2 sentence long statement that defines who you are and the values that drive you. They define what is important to you, how you see the best version of yourself, and your purpose in life.
Why is a mission statement important?
A mission statement is critical for anyone who wants to live a purposeful life. No two people are the same, and everybody has different values and priorities. When we can get clear on our own values and priorities, we’re able to live a more authentic life, as we’re taking action from a place of self-acceptance.
Let’s consider an example of how a mission statement can help you. Nowadays, many people are turning to remote work or freelance work, as it offers them more freedom and flexibility with their time and location than a typical 9-5. Maybe you begin to wonder if you should become a freelancer too. But after some self-reflection, you realize that your guiding values in life are security and stability.
Though some people feel restricted by a typical 9-5, you might find comfort in the stability. Knowing this can help you live a more authentic life. Rather than trying to be someone you’re not, you can instead embrace the fact that you value security and predictability, and look for jobs that will offer you this.
No matter the case, a mission statement can act as a guide as you make big life decisions, and ensure you’re making choices that align with who you truly are. The same goes for businesses too! By crafting a mission statement for your company, you can make sure every decision or new product is aligned with your company’s values.
How do you build a mission statement?
Before beginning to write your mission statement, you’ll want to spend some time self-reflecting on your values and priorities. What excites you? What angers you? What traits do you consider most important in a person?
If you aren’t sure what your values are, try considering the people you look up to the most. How would you describe them? What aspects of their personality do you look up to? What we value in others often tells us what we value about ourselves, so this can be a helpful way of beginning to reflect on your own priorities.
You’ll also want to reflect on your goals, and what sort of impact you want to leave on the world. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? How do you want people to speak about you when you’re gone? If you were 80 years old looking back on your life, what would you need to accomplish in order to feel proud of the life you lived? Write down any words or phrases that come to mind.
Keep in mind that there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ here. In fact, this is the time to cut out outside noise or influence that tells you what you should value or aim for, and reflect on what you actually want, at your core.
After compiling your answers to these questions, summarize what you’ve learned about yourself in one or two, clear sentences. This is your mission statement, to help guide and lead you.
Here at Canada’s Virtual Assistant, we recommend printing off this mission statement and hanging it somewhere easy to see. That way, when times get tough or you have a big decision to make, you can remind yourself of who you are, and what you are working towards.
Overall, a mission statement is an incredibly helpful tool for anyone looking to lead a more purposeful, value-driven life. What will your mission statement s
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