Purpose is a powerful force in our lives. Once we identify with a purpose that is in service to others, it is as if we are magically clothed in a coat of resilience and can accomplish the impossible. I have personally experienced this phenomenon and can attest to the fact that roadblocks that were once a source of frustration suddenly appear as mere challenges that need to be overcome in order to reach a goal that is greater than me. This may sound like an exaggerated statement, but it is true. Take a moment and reflect on a time when you were doggedly determined to accomplish a goal. I am certain that during this time you were particularly resilient and extremely effective. The same dynamic is at play when we refer to "purpose" but in a way that is longer-term in nature.
Now, imagine that you are working with a group of people who not only identify with a sense of purpose – and are healthier, happier, and more productive because of it – but who share a common purpose. Think of the potential power contained in such a group. What was once a group of individuals with self-serving goals has been transformed into a group whose self-serving goals is now that of pursuing a purpose that is greater than them.
Before resonating with a sense of purpose, one of my self-serving goals was to figure out how I could maximize my income while minimizing my work effort. After connecting with a sense of purpose, however, my perspective shifted. While I still value income (I need to pay the bills) and time away from work (I love spending time with my family) my goal is to maximize my own productivity while I am working because I believe in my purpose with every fiber of my being. I used to welcome distractions but now find them annoying because they interfere with the pursuit of what I feel is my purpose. And now that I am working with people who also share a passion for purpose, the potential to make an impact is limitless. Imagine if every team in your organization felt the same way about what they were doing? Wouldn't we all be thrilled to get rid of the Sunday-night blues and replace it with a sense of excitement and anticipation?
While it's easy to make the case for shared purpose, the real challenge lies in making it a reality. I grappled with this reality over a nine-year period but thanks to my experience and the help of a talented group of people at Arctos360, I wholeheartedly believe that we have identified a path that individuals and groups can take that will align them with a sense of purpose. It is a path that weaves in personal and private reflection, job crafting, and group work facilitated by seasoned coaches within a robust and scalable platform. We have poured our hearts into creating a meaningful experience and will do the same in crafting a solution that will work for you. If this message resonates with you I would love to hear from you.