I was talking with a business owner on our Women Who Follow Through programme about the goal she wanted to achieve.
She had written something down, but it was more of an action. So, I asked her why the action mattered. I kept prompting, and then asked her what it would look like if she achieved it. That’s when we uncovered something much deeper.
At the heart of her business was a desire to help set her children up well for the future, just as her parents had helped her. That was her real purpose.
When your purpose is clear and connected to your values and what you care about, it gives you something to keep coming back to. It helps you stay focused, make choices about what matters most, and knuckle down when things get tough.
It also opens up more possibilities. Instead of becoming fixed on one action, you can explore different ways of achieving the difference you really want to make.
She had started with a ‘goal’ of employing someone (really an action) so she could help free up more time in her business. Once she understood her purpose, her goal shifted to ‘achieving the financial means to support my children’s future aspirations’. Then she began talking about different ways she could achieve that. Possibilities were opening up!
Purpose sits at the heart of a strong value proposition. It is not only about what you do, but why it matters and the value you are seeking to create.
I’m offering a free online workshop to help develop your value proposition, starting with getting clear about your purpose. You’ll find the details below.
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Two useful recommendations:
Community Governance AotearoaA range of online talks and workshops you can join for free to learn more about good governance that’s specific to not for profits. Link to current programme
Johan Hari Stolen Focus: Why you can’t pay attentionIs your ability to focus and pay attention in free fall?
You are not alone. The average office worker now focuses on any one task for just three minutes. But it’s not your fault. Your attention didn’t collapse. It has been stolen.
Internationally bestselling author Johann Hari shows twelve deep factors harming our focus. Once we understand them, together, we can take back our minds.
Available as an audiobook on Spotify |
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Something to think about:
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Jane Goodall.
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Discover your purpose
When everyone in your organisation is clear about the difference you’re there to make, it becomes much easier to decide what to focus on, what opportunities to pursue and what to say no to.
Join my value proposition workshop to define the impact at the heart of your work and create a clearer foundation for your organisation’s direction and decisions.
Register your interest using the link below, and I’ll get back to you on dates.
It's free for purpose driven organisations ❤️
Mauri ora, Carolyn
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