“Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.”
– Rumi
At the heart of every thriving company lies a driving force, something that fuels motivation, sparks inspiration, and translates into real, tangible outcomes — that force is purpose.
Understanding a company’s purpose is a unique journey for every organization, rooted in the desire to address a challenge. For most companies, it’s about creating a product, solution, or service that simplifies the lives of their customers. Purpose embodies a company’s “why” and acts as a guiding light, steering decisions and defining objectives.
But embracing purpose isn’t just about fancy words; it’s about leadership.
So, what does leading with purpose really mean?
Leading with purpose involves infusing your leadership style with your core values and a strong sense of intention. For many, it’s about having a vision and sharing it. By communicating this vision to your teams, you can encourage them to connect with their work on a deeper level, finding personal fulfillment.
As a business leader, your company’s purpose should resonate with your team, motivating and inspiring them.
Leading with purpose is no hollow ritual; there’s a meaningful why behind what you do. This sense of purpose keeps you motivated and helps you find genuine value in your work.
Inspired leaders have a way of sparking inspiration in others. Your purpose not only urges you forward but also extends its light to those around you. People are more inclined to follow leaders who have a clear direction and goal. Acting with purpose and intentionality also makes you a dependable and reliable leader.
How can you lead with purpose in your day-to-day role?
Here are practical steps to infuse more purpose into your leadership style:
- Dig into your core values: Start by developing a purpose based on your personal core values. Consider what matters most to you and what you hope to achieve in your role as a leader.
- Define your purpose: Keeping your core values in mind, craft a vision for your future that aligns with your work, company goals, and your team’s needs.
- Share your purpose: Make sure to communicate your purpose and goals to those you lead. Transparency encourages their support and holds you accountable.
- Align your actions with your purpose: Prioritize your purpose in everything you do. Let your deeds mirror your values and vision, making your intentions clear to all.
- Reflect on your ability to fulfill your purpose: Regularly check in with yourself to ensure your actions align with your purpose.
More tips for leading with purpose:
- Stay true to yourself: Being a purposeful leader demands authenticity, vulnerability, and awareness. Never compromise your core values, and strive to be a consistently reliable leader.
- Seek out environments that nurture intentional leadership: A positive work environment can bolster your efforts to lead with intentionality, fostering behavior that naturally aligns with your values.
- Pursue growth opportunities: Embrace resources that encourage intentional leadership practices and ways to infuse purpose into your strategies.
In an increasingly aware world, more companies are recognizing the vital role of leading with purpose. A study by Quartz Insights and WE revealed that 73% of respondents believe purposeful leadership is as crucial as financial outcomes, directly impacting the bottom line.
Take a moment to consider your company’s purpose and its resonance with you and your team. If there’s room for improvement, take steps to define a purpose that’s more impactful and inspiring. Not only will it enhance workforce engagement and consumer satisfaction, but it will also infuse meaning into the daily work of you and your employees. And that’s where the true value lies.
Leading with purpose enriches not only your business but also your life.
Leading with purpose enriches not only your business but also your life. Embrace purpose – allow it to guide your journey and success will naturally follow.