Unlocking purpose is one of the most important and complex puzzles we can undertake. Creating a roadmap that includes the elements of a strategy for a clear purpose are VIP AIMS [Mission – Vision – Values – Goals] provides direction and fuels motivation. Purpose planning is long term thinking to decide what is most important to you so you can focus your attention on that. It is not an easy task and it takes time and work. But the meaning it gives to life makes it worthwhile.
↳ Pursue purpose
↳ Look at mission
↳ Align with values
↳ Name an AIM for a vision
↳ Select significant goals
• Value based Vision (where)
• Important Mission (what)
• Purpose (why)
• Active movement
• Inspiring appeal
• Meaningful measures
• Significant solutions
MISSION (what)
Your mission is what you do now and why. A mission includes how you do what you do, who you do it for, and for what benefits and value. It clarifies your purpose and motivates you to accomplish the goals that will move you forward toward your vision. Create a personal mission statement with a value statement formula. This is the power tool for Purpose, one of the four Ps of Positive Psychology. Watch: How to Create a Personal Mission and Vision Statement from Dale Carnegie Training (5:49)
Maps out WHAT you do
Includes WHY you do it (purpose)
Set in present NOW
Shows HOW you do it
Includes special WAY you do it
Outlines benefits to others &
Needs met (value provided)
VISION (where)
Your vision is about where you are going in the future, what you want to achieve, and what the world will look like when you do. A compelling vision provides direction with positive words and emotions. AIM for a vision that is Active, Inspiring, and Meaningful. Simon Sinek describes vision as a “just cause,” one that is so important you are willing to sacrifice and work hard for it. Watch: Is Why or Vision More Important? He says there are 3 Things That Make a Meaningful Vision: 1. It is resilient, able to withstand change. 2. It is inclusive, an invitation to all to contribute to it. 3. It is service oriented, the primary benefit is to others. A vision board collage of positive words and pictures that illustrate goals is a visual and visible reminder to move forward and take action.
Visualize where you are going
Inspire -what success looks like
Set in future –the ultimate goal
Images and words
Objectives and goals
Needs of the world
PURPOSE & VALUES (why)
Purpose is why you exist, your reason for being, the problem you want to solve. Learn more about how to UNLOCK purpose at Clues to Purpose.
- Understanding of self and what you…
- Need to chase
- Love to learn about
- Often lose track of time doing
- Changes you want to make
- Keep wanting to build
Your values are the guiding principles you believe in, and they provide a solid foundation for all other elements. Learn how to Map Your Values to discover what your values are.
GOALS (how)
Once you have a mission and vision that is based on your purpose and values, you can begin to make a plan for how to get there. Your goals are how you will carry out your mission. They outline a plan that describes the special way that you solve the problem and helps establish priorities.
Different goals may all contribute to a central AIM. For example, my own goals to tutor reading, facilitate a vision board workshop, and to write a book about positive shift, all contribute to my central AIM of freedom through education. Goals that align with values have intrinsic motivation built in. Learn more about choosing goals in different life areas. Goals for mission and vision may be general and long term, so planning more specific objectives with measurable actions and SMART wording is the next step.
Download the Mission – Vision – Values – Goals pdf
To select priorities for planning goals and purpose, it is especially important to consider VIP AIMS and the factors of impact and engagement with The Effect Priority Matrix. Setting priorities is also a vital skill for effective time use when planning your day.
Download a free pdf that outlines Purpose Planning and Priorities.
Strategies for Planning Purpose
KNOW YOURSELF
The more you know yourself, the better you will be able to develop a plan for purpose. Download a free Self Assessment form at the Brand and Purpose Toolkit. Explore the Discover U series and find links to online tools at the Discover U Toolkit at Wakelet, or in the free ebook on How to Start a Fire. Links are also at Uncover Hidden Talents.
KNOW THE UNIQUE VALUE YOU PROVIDE
How will you use your special mix of strengths and talents? Look for a unique solution to solve the problem that most captivates your attention, and that will meet the needs of Your Target Audience.
ALWAYS BE COMMUNICATING VALUE
To get others interested and involved, be sure to always communicate the value that you add by meeting needs with the benefits that you provide. Watch a video from the Latimer Group on How to Be Heard in a Noisy World.
Purpose planning is a continuous process, and it may need to be updated during an annual review.
Many resources for the career search process are also helpful in purpose planning. Learn more about personal development at the Brand and Purpose Toolkit. Check out Mission and Vision Statements at Mindtools.com and more at the value statement Pinterest board.
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