Mandelbrot
Every individual embarks on a unique journey through life, a voyage that can sometimes seem directionless. A personal mission statement serves as a compass for this journey, pointing consistently towards one’s true north. In this post, I will share my voyage through the depths of self-reflection, as I navigated towards creating my own personal mission statement.
The Starting Point
As part of a coaching program, I was tasked with creating a personal mission statement. This wasn’t merely an assignment, but an invitation to delve deeper into my core values and desires. At first, it seemed like a daunting task. However, my prior exposure to the ancient philosophy of Stoicism provided a strong foundation for my introspection.
Reflections on the Present
To begin, I analyzed various aspects of my life - my supportive family, fulfilling career, and personal contentment. However, recognizing that contentment isn’t complacency, I identified areas for improvement: expressing more gratitude, contributing more to my community, managing my emotions, and overcoming procrastination.
Looking to the Future
Peering into my future, my greatest aspiration is simple yet profound: I wish for everyone whose life I have touched to feel enriched by my presence. To fulfill this, I strive to empower others, inspire them to reach their potential, and serve as a steadfast support in their times of need.
Taking Stock of the Past
Reflecting on my past, I recognize a mix of pride and regret. I’ve triumphed, qualifying my Chartered Accountancy and CFA exams on the first attempt, and I’ve found a life partner who has nurtured my growth. Yet, I’ve also faltered, missing opportunities for personal growth and failing to stand against bullying in my school years. These highs and lows, however, have together shaped my perspective and fueled my desire for continuous growth.
Crafting the Mission Statement
Guided by my past, present, and future reflections, I distilled my personal mission statement:
What do I want to do? Serve God, family, and community with unwavering devotion. Empower young people by providing resources for them to reach their potential. Build wealth for not just myself, but also for those in need.
Who do I want to be? A person of courage and integrity, setting a positive example for others. A beacon of wisdom, always willing to listen and learn. A loving husband, nurturing father, loyal son, and supportive friend.
What values will guide me? Patience, faithfulness, and courage. Remembering my roots, past struggles, and the lessons learned from them. Maintaining my health and strength to fulfill my duties and serve my purpose to the best of my ability.
Conclusion
This journey towards crafting my personal mission statement, underpinned by Stoic teachings, has been both emotional and enlightening. My mission statement now serves as my compass, guiding me through life’s ebbs and flows, keeping me grounded, and pointing me towards my true north.
While this mission statement is a snapshot of who I am now, it is not static. As I continue to grow and evolve, it too will transform. It stands as my commitment to myself, a constant reminder of my values, and my dedication to the people and causes I hold dear.
By sharing my personal mission statement, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own voyage of self-discovery, and to hold myself accountable to these principles. With humility, acceptance, and humor, as taught by the Stoics, I am confident of navigating any challenges on this journey, knowing I have a reliable compass pointing towards my true north.