From our early stages of life, usually we all have goals and dreams. Some of our goals may change along our journey, some may remain the same, but depending on what they are and who you are, these can be very versatile. One thing that can always remain constant, however, is something we often forget to even define for ourselves: our personal mission statement.

I was listening to a radio talk show a little while ago, and while the main topic of that discussion has slipped from my mind, one thing from the conversation did stick with me. Someone was asked what their company’s mission statement was, and afterwards they were asked, “and what is your personal mission statement?” That’s when it hit me: a defined, personal mission statement can be a very powerful thing, and here’s why you should know what yours is.

1. Your mission statement is your guide.

   Here at CP Staffing, our mission statement is
   “CP Staffing Solutions is committed to being the clear partner of choice to our client employers and the individuals that we represent.  This is achieved by working tirelessly to understand our client’s needs and delivering staffing solutions that improve their competitiveness.  We strive to serve as a lifetime source of career management for the individuals we represent.”

   This statement is what drives everything we work towards, and how we get there. My point: your personal mission statement does the same thing; it’s where all your goals and aspirations will come from in the first place – what drives you to do what you do. Once you know what you want your life to represent, what you want to stand for (what you’d like your legacy to be), it becomes easier to map out your life goals in order to abide by your mission.

2. Your mission statement keeps you on track.

   Because your statement is your guide, it means that when you’re going the wrong way, taking a look at your mission statement can sound off the alarm. A lot of times we’ll make goals for ourselves, want things, or make decisions that seem great at first, but can hinder us instead of move us forward. Just because we fit in somewhere, it doesn’t mean that’s where we belong. Having a mission statement can help you determine not only where you fit in, but where you actually belong, because of what you want to represent. So, when you start to steer off your personal road, your guide is there to lead you back in the right direction.

3. Your mission statement helps clarify your purpose.

   Ah, there’s that tricky subject of “purpose” again. Some people believe wholeheartedly that we all have a purpose in life, while others firmly believe that we’re just passing by, with no real intent in the universe. Well, no matter where you fall on the spectrum, your life certainly is not meant to be wasted. If you’re having difficulty figuring out what you’re meant to do while you’re walking this earth, then figuring out and writing a personal mission statement can help you live your life with meaning. It can help you make better decisions at work, in difficult situations, and in everyday encounters. Even if you’re not fond of the word “purpose,” no harm can come from finding a way to always try and show what you consider to be your best self!

What’s your mission statement? 

One thing that the special guest on that talk show said was that, when it comes to mission statements, it’s probably best to have no more than 20 words; this can help prevent you from wandering away from it in the first place. So, there’s a start – you can go ahead and figure out a 20-word sentence or phrase of what you’d like your life to represent: your personal mission statement. And hey, if the 20-word limit isn’t for you, then feel free to add more and find whatever works best. Go ahead and give it a go! If and when you figure it out, please share with us what your personal mission statement is!

Featured image: created on Piktochart

Written By Nayadee Wilson