Finding Your Mission
Definition: Finding Your Mission
A mission refers to the core purpose or reason for the existence of an individual, organization, or venture. It embodies the fundamental aspirations, values, and goals that guide and shape the actions and decisions of the entity. A mission statement typically communicates the overall objective or intended impact that the entity seeks to achieve in its chosen field or area of operation. It serves as a guiding principle and provides a sense of direction, identity, and focus, helping to align efforts, make strategic decisions, and inspire stakeholders.
Source: Collins, J. C., & Porras, J. I. (1996). Building your company’s vision. Harvard Business Review, 74(5), 65-77.
Finding their mission to tackle wicked problems is at the core of a sustainable entrepreneur’s journey. It’s about discovering their purpose and aligning it with the pressing challenges that the world faces. Sustainable entrepreneurs embark on a quest to make a meaningful impact, driven by their passion, values, and desire for positive change.
To find their mission, sustainable entrepreneurs begin by reflecting on their own strengths, interests, and areas of expertise. They dig deep within themselves to uncover what truly ignites their inner fire and what issues they feel most compelled to address. They take stock of their values and consider how they can align those values with the wicked problems they seek to tackle.
Watch this video to learn more about uncovering what issues and values ignite your inner fire.
The School of Life. (2017, October 19). Finding your mission [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/c5-LfK2i2J4
Next, sustainable entrepreneurs engage in extensive research and exploration. They immerse themselves in the world of wicked problems, gathering information, and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges they want to tackle. By staying informed and aware, they identify the areas where their unique skills and insights can have the greatest impact.
Collaboration plays a crucial role in the process of finding their mission. Sustainable entrepreneurs recognize that addressing wicked problems requires collective effort. They seek out partnerships with individuals, organizations, and communities who share their vision and can contribute complementary skills and resources. Through collaboration, they expand their perspectives and enhance their ability to address complex challenges.
Sustainable entrepreneurs also listen attentively to the needs and aspirations of the communities affected by the wicked problems. They engage in dialogue, conduct interviews, and immerse themselves in the lived experiences of those impacted. This empathetic approach enables them to identify the most pressing pain points and co-create solutions that truly address the root causes.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
~~ Peter Drucker
This empowering quote by Peter Drucker, a renowned management consultant and author, encapsulates the essence of how sustainable entrepreneurs find their mission. It highlights the proactive and forward-thinking mindset required to create a better future through entrepreneurship. Sustainable entrepreneurs understand that finding their mission involves not only identifying societal and environmental challenges but also taking bold action to address them. They strive to be catalysts for positive change, actively shaping the future they envision.
Ultimately, finding their mission as sustainable entrepreneurs is an ongoing journey of self-discovery, exploration, collaboration, and deep empathy. It requires introspection, research, and a commitment to making a positive impact. By aligning their passion, skills, and values with the wicked problems that resonate with them the most, sustainable entrepreneurs can embark on a transformative path to drive meaningful change and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Knowledge Check!
Resources
- Harvest Growth. (2022, September 15). HG podcast: Finding your purpose in entrepreneurship – FlipLok.com [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/boPZFWRrrG4
