personal mission statement assignment

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (20 Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on May 3, 2023 — 6 minutes to read

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement: 20 Inspiring Examples

A personal mission statement is a declaration of your guiding principles, goals, and aspirations in life. It helps you articulate your purpose, clarify your values, and make better decisions, both personally and professionally.

Having a personal mission statement is important for staying grounded and focused, especially when faced with difficult choices or setbacks in your life. By clearly defining your mission, you can:

Gain a sense of direction
Set priorities
Align actions with core values
Improve decision-making
Motivate yourself
Enhance personal growth and development

Key Components

In order to craft an effective personal mission statement, it’s important to consider three key components:

Purpose: Reflect on your passions, what motivates you, and what you believe you were meant to do in this world.
Core values: What are the principles that govern your behavior and decision-making? Think about the qualities you value most, such as integrity, kindness, or perseverance. Learn more: Core Values List: 150+ Awesome Examples of Personal Values
Goals: What do you hope to achieve in life, both personally and professionally? Determine what kind of impact you want to make in the world and set specific, measurable objectives that will help you reach that goal.

As you work on these components, be honest with yourself and choose elements that truly resonate with you, rather than adopting someone else’s beliefs or expectations. If your mission statement reflects your authentic self, it will be a far more effective tool for personal growth and fulfillment.

Creating Your Personal Mission Statement

Identifying your values.

Understanding your core values is essential in creating a personal mission statement. These values should reflect what is most important to you, and they will be the foundation of your mission statement. To help you identify your values, consider the following steps:

Reflect on your past experiences and the values that were demonstrated in those situations.
Ask yourself what values you hold most dear and which ones guide your decisions.

Learn more: Core Values List: 150+ Awesome Examples of Personal Values

Once you have a list of potential values, narrow it down to the top 3-5 that resonate with you the most. These will serve as the basis for your personal mission statement.

Setting Your Goals

Now that you have identified your values, it’s time to set your personal and professional goals. These goals should align with your values and form the framework of your mission statement. Here are some steps to assist you in setting your goals:

Break your life into categories (such as career, relationships, and personal growth).
Consider both short-term and long-term goals within each category.
Be specific and realistic about what you want to achieve.

With clearly defined goals, you will be better equipped to create a mission statement that is focused and actionable.

Writing Your Statement

Now that you have defined your values and goals, you can begin crafting your personal mission statement. Keep the following tips in mind while writing your statement:

Begin with a powerful opening sentence that encapsulates your values and aspirations.
Be clear in expressing your goals and how they align with your values.
Write in the present tense and use positive language to project confidence.

Your personal mission statement should be a reflection of who you are and what you hope to achieve. Revise and refine your statement until you feel it accurately represents your values, goals, and aspirations.

Examples of Personal Mission Statements

In this section, you’ll find a variety of personal mission statement examples tailored to different roles, lifestyles, and aspirations. Take inspiration from these examples and use them as a starting point for your own unique mission statement.

Example 1: Student

As a student, your mission might be to excel academically and develop meaningful relationships. Example: “To achieve academic excellence, cultivate lifelong friendships, and make a positive impact on my university community.”

Example 2: Career Professional

Your mission as a career professional could be to advance in your industry, exemplify integrity, and balance work and personal life. Example: “To grow professionally, maintain a high level of integrity, and achieve a healthy work-life balance.”

Example 3: Parent

As a parent, your mission could be to nurture, teach, and support your children, preparing them for the future. Example: “To provide a loving, enriching environment for my children, empowering them with the tools to succeed and grow.”

Example 4: Retiree

Your mission as a retiree can be to enjoy your golden years, staying healthy, and remaining active in your community. Example: “To maintain my health, engage in fulfilling hobbies, and contribute positively to my community.”

Example 5: Entrepreneur

“To create innovative solutions and provide exceptional value to my customers and my community.”

Example 6: Freelancer

“To deliver outstanding work to my clients while maintaining flexibility and work-life balance.”

Example 7: Community Volunteer

“To dedicate my time and skills to causes that make a meaningful impact in my community.”

Example 8: Environmentalist

“To contribute to a sustainable future through conscious choices and meaningful actions.”

Example 9: Artist

“To express my creativity, tell compelling stories, and touch the lives of others through my art.”

Example 10: Innovator

“To think critically, explore new possibilities, and develop groundbreaking solutions for the future.”

Top-20 Examples of Personal Mission Statements:

To live a life of purpose and make a positive impact on the world around me.
To constantly learn and grow, both personally and professionally, and inspire others to do the same.
To be a compassionate and empathetic listener, and provide support to those who need it.
To live a life of integrity and honesty, and always act with kindness and respect towards others.
To use my creativity and innovation to solve problems and bring new ideas to the table.
To make a difference in my community and give back to those in need.
To be a role model for others, especially young people, and inspire them to pursue their dreams.
To live a life of balance, and prioritize my relationships, hobbies, and passions alongside my work.
To be a leader who empowers others and helps them reach their full potential.
To embrace challenges and failures as opportunities for growth and learning.
To live a life of mindfulness and presence, and appreciate the beauty of the world around me.
To be a responsible and ethical citizen, and contribute to the betterment of society.
To be a lifelong advocate for social justice and equality.
To be a positive force in the lives of those around me, and spread joy and positivity wherever I go.
To be a lifelong learner and teacher, sharing my knowledge and experiences with others.
To be a steward of the environment, and work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
To be a supportive and loving partner, parent, and friend.
To prioritize my physical and mental health, and encourage others to do the same.
To be a lifelong learner and seeker of truth, always questioning and challenging my own beliefs.
To be a champion for diversity and inclusion, and celebrate the unique qualities of every individual.

As you embark on this journey of self-discovery and reflection, it’s important to remember that a great mission statement should resonate deeply within you and help to shape your decisions and actions. Keep in mind these key points when crafting your statement:

Be genuine and authentic
Keep it concise and focused
Reflect your core values and purpose
Use clear and inspiring language

As you work on your statement, be open to revising it over time. Your life experiences and evolving goals may call for adjustments, so ensure that it remains a relevant reflection of your aspirations. With your personal mission statement in hand, you can now approach your life and decisions with a sense of purpose and direction.

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Your Personal Mission Statement Guide: Why and How to Write One (With 10+ Examples and 3 Templates)

In This Guide:

What is a personal mission statement, why would you want to use a personal mission statement, where can you use a personal mission statement, personal mission statement examples, how to write a personal mission statement + 3 templates to use, more examples of personal mission statement..

Quick Answer: A personal mission statement is a concise 1-2 sentence section that identifies who you are, your purpose, and how you define success. It serves as a guide for decision-making and can be used in job applications, social media, and as a reminder of your values. Writing a personal mission statement is a powerful step towards achieving your goals and directing your energy effectively.

Think mission statements are just for corporations and big companies? Think again, they can be one of your best tools for reaching your goals and finding success.

A personal mission statement helps you define your direction and guides your decision-making so you no longer wonder what the best choice is for you. Streamlining your decision-making process is one of the most powerful steps you can take to direct your energy where you need it to be instead of wasting it where you don’t.

Writing may feel a bit daunting at first, and you might be a bit self-conscious about putting your thoughts and the things you want down on paper. It can feel a bit concrete.

But it isn’t hard to write one if you know the right questions to ask yourself and grasp how to structure those answers to your benefit.

In this article we’ll:

Explain what a personal mission statement is
Clarify why you’d want to use a personal mission statement
Show you where can you use a one
Give a few examples of some famous personal mission statements
Demystify how you can write one for yourself
And as a bonus, we’re including 3 sure-fire templates you can use to write your own personal mission statement, AND we’re throwing in a few examples for different places you might use one!

A personal mission statement is a small but extremely powerful part of your career development process. For help with this and any other parts of that process use our career counseling service .

We’ve helped 1000+ people succeed in their job search , prep for interviews , negotiate the details of their contracts, and hit their career targets . If you have questions on any part of your career development or steps to success, our experts are ready to give you advice and help you strategize your next move.

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A personal mission statement identifies who you are, what your purpose is, and how you define success - in the office and/or in your personal life. It’s a 1-2 sentence maxim, about 30-40 words, that describes how you intend to work toward that purpose, and why it matters so much to you.

Your mission statement can act as a guide when you have decisions to make because it gives you clarity on which options best align with your goals and values. Because it’s such a brief distillation of what matters to you, it’s easy to:

Reference when you’re wondering what to do
Include in job applications and social media
Post in your workspace to remind yourself and others what it is you stand for

Mission statements save time, and more importantly energy, by editing out unneeded tasks and decisions. By cutting out the effort you’d spend on thinking about and making decisions every time something comes up, you can quickly reference your mission statement to decide what your best option is.

The upshot is that your personal mission statements will keep you on track with your values and goals. For example, when something unexpected comes up, instead of working through whether it’s a good option considering A, B, and C, you can weigh it against what you’ve already decided is what you want and how you want to get it.

Of course, this means you want the values and goals to line up honestly with what you believe and want. For example, even though it may seem great to say that you value hard work and perseverance, if you don’t really love grinding it out, you don’t really want to base your future or be known as the go-to person for that.

Be realistic, and set yourself up for success. It may take a hot minute to write your mission statement, but the payoff for that is going to be huge down the road.

There are tons of ways you’ll find your personal mission statement useful once you’ve got one written and start using it. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Use it when thinking about your daily tasks and choices. Whether big or small, you’ll have a sounding board to bounce questions off of, and doing things based on what you actually believe makes everything you do that much more valuable and fulfilling.

When planning your days

Use your mission statement as a guide when you’re deciding how to spend your time. You can look at how things are going to move you toward your goals and prioritize them easily, and you can see where maybe you’re spending time that isn’t contributing as much value as you’d like.

When planning a project

Compare potential projects to your mission statement to see how they stack up. If they’ll move you toward your goals, consider how much, if they don't, scrap them.

On your resume, or in your cover letter or portfolio

You can include your mission statement in your resume summary or objective, you can include it in the header or first paragraph of your cover letter , and you can include it as text somewhere in your physical or digital portfolios.

On social media

Your mission statement would be perfect in your LinkedIn bio or other professional or personal social media. Anyone that clicks will get a quick idea of who you are from it.

While looking for work

When you’re looking for work you don’t want to apply for every job out there . You can use your statement to compare job postings to see whether it’s the type of work you actually want to spend 40+ hours/week doing.

As a reference during interviews

Interviews can be tricky and you need to prepare for them, but no matter how many questions you prep for or practice in advance, you may get thrown a curveball. If that happens, consider the question in light of your mission statement and you'll have a great guide on how to answer.

Everyone’s personal mission statement will be, well… personal, so they’re going to be different. But some of these famous statements may help give you an idea of how an effective one looks.

“To be a teacher of others and inspire students to go beyond their limitations.” -Oprah Winfrey

“To bring joy and happiness to other people.” -Walt Disney

“To do more than survive, but to grow and live with passion, while meeting life with compassion, humor, and style.” -Maya Angelou

“If something means enough to you it should be pursued, even if you’re likely to fail.” -Elon Musk

“To live a life without fear or ill will for any person. To refuse to submit to injustice. To conquer untruth with truth, and by doing this to put up with any kind of suffering.” -Mahatma Gandhi

“To help people find hope after loss" -Gloria Horsle

“To serve and help others. To facilitate the education of every girl on planet earth.” -Malala Yousafzai

“To be successful, start thinking about yourself as a personal brand.” -William Arruda

“To be the best leader possible, maintain a work-life balance, and maintain integrity at all times.” -Denise Morrison

“To use my gifts of intelligence, charisma, and serial optimism to cultivate the self-worth and net-worth of women around the world” -Amanda Steinberg

“To have fun in my journey through life and learn from my mistakes.” -Richard Branson

So what are we waiting for? Let's break down how you can start writing a personal mission statement you can use in your next resume, social media profile, and to get you further on the path to success.

With a little thought and work in the beginning, you’ll be able to hone in and set yourself up to write an impactful personal mission statement easily to finish up.

Use these five steps to plan, identify, and write your personal mission statement:

Identify what you value

Your personal mission statement should line up with your values and goals, so start by thinking about who you are and who you want to be at work and personally. A good idea is to just start making a list of words or phrases that identify your:

the things that are important to you
And especially your values

At this point just put as much as you can down on paper, you’ll refine it later.

Lean on your Network

Next, set up some time to talk with your friends, colleagues, family, and especially a mentor if you have one. Other people can see things about us that we can’t, and all of us can sometimes find it hard to be 100% honest with ourselves about ourselves.

Pick their brains about what they see as your strengths and the type of person they see you as. Go over the list you already made, get their input on it, and brainstorm with them more ideas, words, phrases, concepts, and memories that describe who ‘you’ are.

This will help identify how others view you, how your view of yourself differs from that, and where you stand in relation to the person you want to be.

Pick your goals

At this point, you can start to consider all you’ve written down and assess where you are. Don’t worry if you aren’t where you want to be yet - that’s the point.

You can make the things you aren’t happy with part of your first mission statement (and revised ones down the road) to get you to exactly whom you DO want to be.

Focus on the qualities, characteristics, and values you have, and consider your long term goals in light of these to identify a mission statement you can create to help you reach those goals.

Ask yourself:

What do you want other people to see in you?
What do you want your life to look like in 5 years? 10 years?
Which are the key personal and/or professional achievements you want to target?
What does and would make you happy?

What will your upshot be?

Your last consideration should be to ask yourself what you want your takeaway to be for other people? What do you want your legacy to be? What do you want to be remembered for?

Remember, this isn’t your last mission statement though. As things change in your life and you accomplish some of your goals you’re going to revisit and adjust or re-write it.

Your personal mission statement doesn’t have to be the goal of your LIFE, just this current stage of your life.

Some questions to consider:

What changes to the world do you want to (help) make?
Who or what do you want to direct your energy to support?
What are you able to do with your current tools to improve the world?
What motivates you?

Write your statement

Once you understand clearly what values and goals you want in your statement, it’s time to start writing. Draw on the information you gathered in each of the above steps to write one or two clear sentences that summarize your key attributes, values, and goal.

It’s a good idea to write more than one version and play with the wording in different drafts so you can see how the ideas sit in different versions and with different specifics included. Then just pick the one you feel most strongly about.

Keep these tips in mind to perfect your personal mission statement.

You be you. Your personal mission statement should be a reflection of your real self. It should capture your passions, values, and goals, not anyone else's, and shouldn’t just be something you think prospective employers or other people would want to hear.

Look for feedback . Getting feedback and going over your personal mission statement considering this feedback will help you refine your vision. Ask people in your network for suggestions on how you might improve or change it until it's perfect.

Short and to the point . Ideally, your personal mission statement will be just one sentence that crystallizes your values and goals. Being concise will help you limit the ideas you include, remember them better, and make it easier to post or distribute where you want.

Say it often . The point of writing your personal mission statement is partly for yourself and partly to get it across to other people. Consider sharing it with prospective employers, managers, supervisors, mentors, clients, colleagues and on your various social media to have it really stick with and be associated with you.

Keep it up to date. As you apply your personal mission statement you’ll find that either you start to achieve your goals, passions, or values will start to change. Every few months go over what you want, where you are in terms of your goals, and how things might have changed, and update your statement to reflect that.

Here are three templates you can use to start building your own personal mission statements. Use the ideas you came up with in the steps we described earlier to fill in the blanks, and you’ve got a great mission statement ready to go.

"To … (what you want to achieve, do or become) … so that … (reasons why it’s important)."
"I value (choose 1-3 values important to you) because …(reasons why these values are important to you). I …(what you can do to live by these values)."
"To live each day with …[choose 1-3 values or principles]… so that …[what living by these values offers you or others]."

For a resume or a LinkedIn Profile

A personal mission statement for a resume or LinkedIn helps the reader or recruiter identify the strategic value you might add to the company. Try something like with the specifics of your work and passions subbed in:

I’m passionate about counseling to improve the wellbeing and mental health of children and young adults. My passions for counseling, raising awareness about these struggles, and my commitment to helping those who are struggling have inspired me to pursue this career.

Career motto personal mission statements

If you're trying to grow in your career or get into a new one, you can write yourself a mission statement something along the lines of this:

My goal is to switch to a career in (insert industry) to raise my income and get a job that I enjoy. By spending (amount of time per day/week/month) working on (career-related tasks, training, work, etc…) I will ensure I am skilled and have the experience needed to excel in this role.

Company Mission Statements

Corporate mission statements are almost universal nowadays. Companies use mission statements to clearly define their purpose and how they serve their customers and/or others through the products, services, or other actions they develop and offer.

Here are some from companies you may be familiar with:

To serve consumers through online and physical stores and focus on selection, price, and convenience. -Amazon

Our mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. -Microsoft

We ignite opportunity by setting the world in motion. -Uber

To refresh the world in mind, body and spirit. To inspire moments of optimism and happiness through our brands and actions. -Coca-Cola

The mission of Southwest Airlines is dedication to the highest quality of customer service delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and company spirit. -Southwest Airlines

To nourish people and the planet. We're a purpose-driven company that aims to set the standards of excellence for food retailers. Quality is a state of mind at Whole Foods Market. -Whole Foods Market

To organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. -Google

To help bring creative projects to life. -Kickstarter

To accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. -Tesla

To enable economic growth through infrastructure and energy development, and to provide solutions that support communities and protect the planet. -Caterpillar

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. -American Red Cross

To inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time. -Starbucks

Spread ideas. -TED

To entertain, inform, and inspire people around the globe through the power of unparalleled storytelling; reflecting the iconic brands, creative minds, and innovative technologies that make ours the world’s premier entertainment company. -Disney

Our mission is to unlock the potential of human creativity — by giving a million creative artists the opportunity to live off their art and billions of fans the opportunity to enjoy and be inspired by it. -Spotify

To give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. -Facebook

A personal mission statement is a powerful tool to boost productivity and success
They’re 1-2 sentences that describe how you intend to work toward a purpose, and why it matters to you
Use them to outline your values and goals, and find ways to apply your skills to help you reach your goals
If you take the time to plan and prepare your thoughts in advance, they are a breeze to write
Reach out to your network to really drill down into who you are from their perspective too
Personal mission statements can be tools to save time and energy by directing responses to questions and helping guide how you plan your day and projects.
They aren’t forever, review them regularly as your goals evolve
Use them in as many places as possible, including social media, resumes, cover letters, and as references when you're interviewing or even chatting with people

Writing a personal mission statement is just one small step to reaching your career goals and success. We’ve helped 1000+ other candidates find their futures with custom-tailored training, advice, and strategies.

If you want to talk to one of our experts to learn more about how to write a mission statement, or you're curious about any other ways to better navigate your career path, check out our career counseling service.

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Here's How to Write an Impressive Personal Mission Statement [Examples & Template]

Updated: January 25, 2021

Published: January 03, 2019

Companies often need mission statements to define their values, and ensure they're remaining focused on reaching their goals without getting side-tracked.

At its core, a good mission statement helps a company demonstrate who they are, and how they're different from other businesses.

For instance, consider JetBlue's mission statement -- "To inspire humanity -- both in the air and on the ground."

Alternatively, take a look at IKEA's mission statement -- "To create a better everyday life for the many people."

It's obvious from these examples that a good mission statement doesn't just state what a company does -- it also represents what a company hopes to do, on a large scale.

An individual can reap similar benefits from creating a personal mission statement. A personal mission statement allows you to define your values and what success looks like to you, and articulate what matters most to you professionally. Additionally, a mission statement will help guide your professional decisions to ensure your career path aligns with your personal goals.

To ensure you're able to create a truly inspiring and accurate personal mission statement, we've created templates and cultivated examples to help get you started.

What is a personal mission statement?

A personal mission statement is your chance to articulate your values, who you are, and how you define success. You can use a personal mission statement to guide your decisions, and ensure your professional career path remains aligned with your personal goals.

Personal Mission Statement Examples

Take a look at the following examples to help inspire your own personal mission statement.

1. "To serve as a leader, live a balanced life, and apply ethical principles to make a significant difference" -- Denise Morrison, Campbell Soup Company

2. "If something is important enough you should try, even if the probable outcome is failure" -- Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla

3. "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style" -- Maya Angelou

4. "To use my gifts of intelligence, charisma, and serial optimism to cultivate the self-worth and net-worth of women around the world" -- Amanda Steinberg, Dailyworth.com

5. "To make people happy" -- Walt Disney, Founder of Walt Disney Productions

6. "To be a teacher. And to be known for inspiring my students to be more than they thought they could be" -- Oprah Winfrey, Founder of OWN, The Oprah Winfrey Network

7. "I want to serve the people. And I want every girl, every child to be educated" -- Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Prize laureate and activist

How to write a personal mission statement

Begin by considering both who you are, and who you want to become
Write down what is most important to you, what you want your legacy to be, and what you are most passionate about. If this is difficult, visualize what you hope your life will look like at the end of your career path
Dream big and take time to articulate your biggest goals, rather than writing down restricting and short-term plans
Ask peers or mentors what they consider your biggest strengths to be, and consider what makes you exceptional compared to others of similar expertise
Consider what kind of mark you want to leave on the world, and how your skills can help you achieve that
Keep it short. If necessary, try a writing exercise in which you write down only five words that describe you and your purpose, then two, then one. Use these words as inspiration for your mission statement
Be true to yourself -- make sure your mission statement accurately reflects your biggest passion and what you truly believe your long-term purpose to be

Personal Mission Statement Template

Your personal mission statement will be unique to you, and doesn't need to follow any traditional format. However, the task can seem daunting, so we've created a few templates to inspire you and get you started.

Featured Resource: 5 Cover Letter Templates

1. To [what you want to do] by [how you'll do it] so that [what impact you hope to make].

Example -- "To serve as a leader by encouraging innovation and forward-thinking so that my employees can create technology that will improve the lives of those in developing countries."

2. I value [one or multiple things you value] because [why it matters to you]. To do this, I will [how your professional path will align with these values].

Example -- "I value education because I believe it can help women get involved in politics and become world leaders. To do this, I will teach women's studies on policy and law."

3. To use my [skills or expertise] to inspire/lead [group of people] so that [ultimate goal].

Example -- "To use my skills as a journalist to inspire people, so that they are educated about the world around them and are energized to make change."

Ultimately, it's critical you take time to self-reflect and truly consider what energizes you, and what type of long-term legacy you hope to leave behind. If done correctly, a personal mission statement can ensure each decision you make leads you closer to a role in which you find both fulfillment and meaning.

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing Your Own Personal Mission Statement

Mar 10, 2020 | Blog

by Andy Andrews

If you’ve been on this planet long enough to work for a business or buy something from a business, you’re aware that just about all of them have one thing in common…

They have a mission statement.

While many of them are bland or miss the mark, there’s a reason why nearly every business has one.

Mission statements help businesses stay aligned with the values they find most important and ensure they’re staying focused on the way they want to impact the world. They can also help attract customers who share the same values.

So if mission statements are so critical that businesses often spend hundreds of hours crafting and fine-tuning them, why do so few people take the time to create their own personal mission statement?

Writing Personal Mission Statement on Napkin

The #1 Tool for Making Tough Decisions

A personal mission statement creates boundaries that allow you to play freely, create freely, and deal freely.

Everything you do—your investments of time, money, and relationships—should fit within the boundaries of that mission statement.

Boundaries, of course, aren’t the first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think about freedom. But they’re essential if you want to avoid distractions and free yourself up to focus on the things you find most important.

Consider this: a personal mission statement that sets clear boundaries is the number one tool for making tough decisions.

Because once you have set the boundaries for what you will and won’t accept in your life, when something comes up that is outside those boundaries, you don’t even have a decision to make. It’s that simple.

Many people spend so much time deciding whether they’re going to do something.

Is this good? Should I do it or not? What if I don’t do it?

They run it by everyone they know. They lose sleep over it. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Living your life according to a mission statement is a more narrowly focused version of living your life according to principles.

Once you declare your mission statement, you begin living it. You don’t have to consider much outside it. The statement can be as long or as short as you like. Here’s mine for myself and my business:

My mission is to help others live the lives they would if they only knew how.

I spent a great amount of time thinking about that mission statement. It is the culmination of years of prayer, study, and experience.

5 Questions You Must Answer When Writing Your Personal Mission Statement

I created an in-depth worksheet that makes writing your personal mission statement much easier. It has templates, detailed instructions, and suggested next steps — download at the bottom of this page.

A meaningful personal mission statement isn’t something you can just pull out of thin air. There are, however, questions you can begin asking yourself every day that will move you closer to creating one:

1. What is important? What/whom do you value? How is your life connected to those things?

2. Where do I want to go? You can answer this many different ways. Your answer may involve a spiritual, mental, or physical destination. It might describe your career arc.

3. What does “the best” look like for me? Describe your best possible result. This isn’t the time to be realistic. This is the time to dream.

4. How do I want to act? How do you want people to describe you? Think of a few words you would want to come to mind when people think about you.

5. What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind ? Imagine you’re 100 years in the future. What does the impact you’ve left look like? How is your Butterfly Effect still touching lives? Write down your answers to these questions and revisit them often. As you continue thinking about them, start giving your personal mission statement a shot. A few guidelines:

Keep it short. You want this to be something you can sum up in a single sentence. Remember, this is about focusing your life on what matters most! Boundaries will help you keep that focus.

Don’t forget about others. Yes, this is a personal mission statement, but it should be just as much about the people you want to impact as it is about yourself. Make sure that shows.

Share it with the most important people in your life. Get feedback from your spouse, your mentors, and any other important people in your life. They can provide you with invaluable insight.

It’s OK to make changes . As you grow and continue learning, your mission might evolve. That’s natural. As long as you’re staying true to the mission you know you were put here to accomplish , you can’t go wrong.

Personal Mission Statement Examples

Finding the perfect wording for your mission statement can be a challenge. To give you some inspiration, here are some examples readers have shared with me: “To inspire positive change through teaching and coaching.” “To create opportunities for today’s youth.” “To encourage, engage, and equip others to believe in the possibilities.” “To positively impact the life of every person I meet.” “To encourage everyone I interact with on a daily basis.” And, of course, my personal mission statement…“ To help others live the lives they would if they only knew how.”

How to Determine If Something Is Aligned with Your Personal Mission Statement

I know that if a certain activity—what I’m learning, doing, reading, watching, or becoming—begins to steer me outside the mission I’ve established, I “grab the wheel,” regain the focus I lost there for a moment, and get on down the road I already decided to travel. I’ll give you an example…

Early on in my speaking career, when finances were very tight, I had been offered a deal from a very famous beer company to put a sign behind me when I was performing on college campuses. The offer they had made was more money than we had made in the previous two years combined, but I didn’t agonize over whether to accept or decline.

Highway Roads Diverging Around a Mountain

Heck, I never even considered it. I already decided several years earlier that I would not advertise alcohol or cigarettes. There were (and are) several reasons for this decision and though I hadn’t written a personal mission statements at that point, I had already established principles about how I was going to run the business and my lives. For many people, this might have been a difficult choice. But when you’ve already decided what you stand for, what your life is about, and what you will or will not do, you no longer need to weigh pros and cons when an offer arrives out of the blue. The hard work was done long ago . If something isn’t as clear-cut from the beginning and you do need to deliberate, consider the following questions to determine if it’s aligned with your mission statement: Is this opportunity/request/project:

Part of who I am?
Part of who I am working to become?
Part of my purpose in life?

When God puts a vision in your life and puts dreams in front of you about where you’re going to go in life, how you’re supposed to live, and the impact you’re intended to have on this earth, he’s not fooling around. God doesn’t change his mind. God does not teach you to swim just to let you drown. And when you ask good questions (like the ones above), you discover what really fills your life with a sense of passion, purpose, and direction.

Bonus: Family Mission Statements

I think it’s absolutely necessary to have a mission statement for yourself and for your business, but even more so for your family. In the past, I’ve been hesitant to reveal my family’s mission statement because I never wanted to impose mine on anyone else. It is important for your family to think through your own. Carefully consider each word and phrase. Know why they belong. Our family’s mission statement should not be a template. Instead, use it as inspiration—a gift from me—a glowing ember upon which to build the flames of your own process. Here it is:

In the Andrews family, our mission is to arise each day with grateful hearts and smiling faces, determined to glorify, serve and trust in God. We live by the highest standards of moral character and integrity. We love, respect, encourage and defend each other. And we’re noble stewards of the resources entrusted to us.

Polly, the boys, and I sat down and asked ourselves the same questions I listed earlier:

What is important?

Where do we want to go?

What does “the best” look like for us?

How do we want to act?

What is the legacy we want to leave behind?

Over the course of several weeks, we crafted the mission statement we finally declared ours. Today, every visitor in our home sees the statement we have made as to what our family is about. Most stop and read it, for The Andrews Family Mission Statement is framed and hanging in our front hallway. It makes life more intentional for Polly and me, but it is also transforming how our boys think and act. Whenever we are faced with a decision—individually or collectively—we refer to the mission statement to make sure what we choose is congruent with who we are and who we are becoming as a family. I urge you to work on your own mission statement. Not only does it provide clarity and direction for your purpose in life, it also helps you face every decision with calm and resolve, knowing in advance that what you choose will always be the best choice for you and your family. Question: What are some of the values that you will include in your personal mission statement?

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Use This Free Worksheet to Create Your Own Personal Mission Statement

Ready to get started? It may seem like a long, difficult process, but it isn’t as hard as it seems. To help out, I created a detailed worksheet with templates for creating your personal mission statement—it helps you take what’s in your head, put it on paper, and implement it immediately.

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55 Personal Mission Statement Examples

personal mission statement examples and definition, explained below

A personal mission statement defines your purpose. It explains what you want to achieve in your life, career, personal relationships, and so on.

It differs from a career or educational mission statement because it’s more holistic: it’s not just about your job or school. It’s about what you want to achieve with your life overall. and what your personal philosophy is in life .

Here is my personal mission statement:

“I will be generous with my time both with family and strangers. I will consciously and intentionally spend quality time with my parents, my wife, and my children. I will pass-on love of life and self-belief to my children by living as a positive example. I will commit my career to working on projects that are meaningful to me. And I will be responsible with my health and finances for the longevity of my life and to ensure I can care for my family for many years to come.”

When I was asked to write a personal mission statement for applying for my job as a teacher, I tweaked it to focus more on my career:

“My personal mission statement as a teacher is to inspire and support my students, help them see their own potential, and build them up each and every day. I will commit my time to letting each student know they are capable of success, and I will help show them the path to personal and academic success.”

Below is a range of ideas for a personal mission statement. As the mission statement is personal, I recommend using these ideas as inspiration, but make sure you pick and choose the sentiments that are meaningful to you, and write your own.

Personal Mission Statement Examples

The following examples can be used as stimuli for you to think about what you want to include in your own mission statement. But, as the word suggests, a personal mission statement should be personal and unique to you . So, pick and choose key ideas from below, while coming up with your own mission statement that reflects your uniqueness.

Live a life that aligns with my core values : “I will strive to live a life that is consistent with my own values and ethics. To achieve this, I will ensure I reflect every day on how my daily actions and interactions with others will reflect upon me, and whether they’re consistent with who I strive to be.”
Seek to be a catalyst for change: “I will dedicate my life to being a catalyst for change in my world. The change I want to see is change toward greater social equality, fairness, and prosperity. To achieve this, I will advocate for the disadvantaged, seek career opportunities for supporting the underprivileged, and donate generously to causes I care about.”
Commit to a journey of self-discovery: “My daily mission is to embark on an ongoing journey of self-improvement and self-discovery, always on track to find my deeper purpose in life.”
Empower myself and others: “I will always strive to empower myself and others through positive affirmation, constructive feedback, and making smart choices. I will remove barriers to self-determination and always respect people’s choices in life.”
Seek opportunities to give back to the community: “I am grateful first and foremost to my community for their support and nourishment, and my personal mission from here on out is to find opportunities where I can give back to my community in both my career and volunteerism.”
Strive for excellence in all endeavors: “ My credo is to always hold myself to a high standard. To me, this means always putting in maximum effort and trying to be the best I can be each and every day.”
Always have a growth mindset: “My core mission is to always maintain a growth mindset each and every day. For me, this means embracing challenges rather than shying away from them, having persistence and resilience when I face setbacks, and viewing effort as a pathway to mastery. “

Aim to leave a meaningful legacy: “At the end of my life, I want to be able to look back and know that I’ve left a legacy for the world and my family. To achieve this, my mission will be to always give more to the world than I take, so I leave the world better off. I will leave a legacy of kindness and a spirit of service and community.”
Continually redefine personal goals and aspirations: “I believe that a person is most successful when they self-reflect to achieve ongoing improvement. So, in my personal mission, I am committed to the ongoing process of personal evolution that will help me continue to refine myself over time. “
Seek the silver lining: “The silver lining is the positive that we can extract out of every situation, even our failures. With this in mind, my mission is to cultivate optimism and to focus on what can be learned from every situation. This approach will both enhance my personal resilience and inspire others to adopt a similar perspective.”
Develop resilience, adaptability, and grit in the face of adversity: “My mission is to develop and embody qualities of resilience, adaptability, and grit. I am determined to approach adversity as an opportunity for growth, learning to navigate through challenges with grace and tenacity. In doing so, I will become stronger and more capable.”
To be generous with my time: “I will be generous with my time because I believe my time is the greatest gift I can give to others. This means I will commit to quality time with my friends and family and make sure I maintain a work-life balance so I can commit my time to the people who deserve it.”
Empowering people around me: “My mission is to empower the people around me, including my colleagues at work, my friends, and my family. By empowering others, I can bring out the best in my community, and leave my community a better place.”
Living with gratitude: “I will commit to expressing gratitude each and every day of my life. To do this, I will commit to meditating, reflecting on what I have, and being grateful for my health, wealth, and family.”
Develop wisdom : “My mission is to continue to develop wisdom. To me, wisdom is knowledge, intelligence, and insight developed through experience and humbly listening to people who have knowledge and experiences beyond mine.”
Seek authentic self-expression: “My mission is to express myself authentically , reflecting every day on how my words, actions, and creations align with my core values. This journey towards authenticity is ongoing and evolving, helping me understand and articulate who I truly am.”
Change what’s in my control: “I pledge to focus my energies on what I can control in my life. I will strive to change my circumstances when possible, and adapt my attitude when it isn’t. By understanding and accepting this distinction, I will bring about the most positive outcomes for myself and those around me.”
Creating harmony between mind-body-soul: “I am committed to fostering harmony between my mind, body, and soul. This means balancing mental challenges with physical exercise and spiritual nourishment, nurturing every part of my being, and achieving a healthier and more balanced life.”
Cultivate emotional intelligence : “I am committed to nurturing my emotional intelligence. This involves understanding my own emotions, demonstrating empathy, and adapting my attitude when necessary, leading to stronger and more effective personal and professional relationships.”
Foster innovative thinking: “My mission is to foster innovative thinking. I will strive to always question, explore, and reimagine the world around me, aiming to leave a legacy of creativity and change.”
Live sustainably and promote environmental consciousness: “I pledge to live sustainably, focusing my energies on what I can control to reduce my environmental impact. Moreover, I will advocate for environmental consciousness within my community, contributing to a healthier planet.”
Encourage diversity and inclusivity in my surroundings: “My mission is to promote diversity and inclusivity. I will strive to empower all voices and create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued, thereby fostering a sense of community and belonging.”
Be a mentor and guide to others: “I will dedicate my time to mentoring and guiding others. By sharing my wisdom and experiences, I can help others navigate their own journeys, leaving a legacy of kindness and service.”
Lead with integrity and honesty: “I am committed to leading with integrity and honesty in all endeavors. I will hold myself to a high standard, aligning my actions with my core values and striving for transparency in every interaction.”
Cultivate a balanced and peaceful lifestyle: “My mission is to cultivate a lifestyle that is peaceful and balanced. I will practice mindfulness, express gratitude for my blessings, and strive to find harmony between my personal, professional, and spiritual life.”
Maintain physical fitness and promote healthy living: “I pledge to maintain my physical fitness and promote healthy living in my community. I will strive to make smart choices regarding diet, exercise, and self-care, thereby embodying and promoting a vision of holistic health.”
A lifelong learning mindset: “With a commitment to growth and a spirit of exploration, I will always seek to broaden my knowledge and perspectives. Embracing challenges and viewing effort as a pathway to mastery, I believe learning is an ongoing journey, not a destination.”
Advocate for social justice and equality: “I am committed to advocating for social justice and equality. I will dedicate myself to being a catalyst for change, promoting fairness, and empowering the disadvantaged, contributing to a more equitable society.”
Practice mindfulness and presence in daily life: “My mission is to cultivate mindfulness and presence in my daily life. By committing to this practice, I will enhance my emotional intelligence, develop resilience, and foster a deeper connection to the world around me.”
Enhance personal and professional relationships: “I pledge to improve and deepen my personal and professional relationships. By demonstrating empathy, respect, and honesty, I will foster meaningful connections and contribute to a vibrant, supportive community.”
Invest in self-care and well-being: “My mission is to invest time and energy in self-care and well-being. Through this practice, I will ensure a balanced life, promote a positive mindset, and prepare myself to better serve others.”
Strive for financial independence and stability: “I am dedicated to achieving financial independence and stability. By making smart and informed decisions, I aim to create a secure foundation that enables personal growth , adventure, and service to my community.”
Foster a spirit of exploration and adventure: “I commit to embracing a spirit of exploration and adventure. By welcoming new experiences and fostering curiosity, I will maintain a lifelong learning mindset, and continually evolve as an individual.”
Practice empathy towards all: “My mission is to cultivate empathy in all my interactions. By striving to understand others’ perspectives, I will empower those around me and contribute to a community rooted in kindness and mutual understanding.”
Embrace change and maintain flexibility: “I am dedicated to embracing change and demonstrating flexibility. I see change as an opportunity for growth, and I will cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a positive attitude in the face of evolving circumstances.”
Nurture a positive and optimistic mindset: “My mission is to cultivate a positive and optimistic mindset. By seeking the silver lining in every situation, I aim to inspire myself and those around me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.”
Advocate for the welfare and rights of animals: “My mission is to advocate for the welfare and rights of animals. I will use my voice and actions to promote humane treatment of animals, contributing to a more compassionate and ethical world.”
Make informed and responsible choices: “I pledge to make informed and responsible choices that align with my values and the greater good. I am committed to reflecting on the implications of my decisions and acting in a way that contributes positively to my community and the environment.”
Create meaningful connections with people: “I strive to create meaningful connections with people. Through empathy, open-mindedness, and genuine engagement, I aim to nurture relationships that enrich my life and the lives of others.”
Develop and demonstrate leadership skills : “My mission is to develop and demonstrate effective leadership skills. I strive to lead with integrity, empathy, and resilience, inspiring others to achieve their best and fostering a spirit of teamwork and mutual respect.”
Seek to understand and respect differing perspectives: “I pledge to understand and respect differing perspectives. I believe that diversity of thought enriches our society, and I strive to promote inclusivity and mutual respect in all my interactions.”
Foster creativity in myself and others: “My mission is to cultivate creativity in myself and others. I will continually explore new ideas, foster an environment that encourages innovation, and inspire those around me to express their unique perspectives and talents.”
Commit to the pursuit of knowledge: “I commit to the continuous pursuit of knowledge. By maintaining a curious and open mind, I strive to learn from every experience, deepen my understanding, and contribute to my personal and professional growth.”
Seek to find joy in the everyday : “My mission is to find joy in everyday moments. I commit to practicing mindfulness, expressing gratitude for the simple things, and cherishing each day as a unique gift.”
Be a source of encouragement and positivity: “I strive to be a source of encouragement and positivity for those around me. By uplifting others, celebrating their achievements, and offering supportive words, I aim to foster a more compassionate and optimistic community.”
Pursue a path of continuous learning and development: “I am dedicated to pursuing a path of continuous learning and development. By always seeking to improve, learn, and grow, I aim to better myself and contribute more effectively to my community and the world at large.”
Prioritize balance in all aspects of life: “I commit to prioritizing balance in all aspects of life. This includes fostering harmony between work and personal time, mental and physical health, and personal desires and community responsibilities, to cultivate a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle.”
Strive to be a good listener and communicator: “I aim to be a good listener and communicator. By practicing active listening and clear, empathetic communication, I will strengthen my relationships and foster mutual understanding and respect.”
Cultivate and express artistic talents: “My mission is to cultivate and express my artistic talents. Through this creative exploration, I aim to express my unique perspectives, contribute to the cultural richness of my community, and inspire others to express their creativity.”
Strive to make a positive impact on the environment: “I am committed to making a positive impact on the environment. By living sustainably, advocating for environmental consciousness, and influencing positive change, I hope to leave a meaningful environmental legacy.”
Seek simplicity and contentment: “My mission is to seek simplicity and contentment in life. By valuing the essential, expressing gratitude for what I have, and finding joy in simple pleasures, I aim to cultivate a lifestyle of peace and fulfillment.”
Develop and foster a spirit of entrepreneurship: “I am dedicated to fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. By embracing innovation, taking informed risks, and learning from both success and failure, I aim to contribute to economic growth and social impact.”
Strive for integrity in actions and communication: “I strive to uphold integrity in my actions and communication. By aligning my actions with my values, being transparent, and communicating honestly, I aim to build trust and respect in my personal and professional relationships.”
Embrace new technologies and innovation: “My mission is to embrace new technologies and innovation. By staying informed about technological advances and integrating them into my work and life, I aim to enhance productivity, creativity, and the quality of life for myself and my community.”
Cultivate and foster peace and harmony in relationships: “I am committed to fostering peace and harmony in my relationships. By promoting understanding, showing empathy, and resolving conflicts with grace, I aim to create strong, fulfilling, and respectful relationships.”
Advocate for responsible consumerism: “I pledge to advocate for responsible consumerism. By making informed choices, promoting sustainability, and encouraging others to do the same, I aim to contribute to a healthier planet and a more equitable economy.”
Care and provide for my family: “My mission is to care for and provide for my family. By being present, offering support, and ensuring their needs are met, I aim to create a nurturing and secure environment for my loved ones.”
Cultivate self-discipline and good habits: “I commit to cultivating self-discipline and good habits . By maintaining focus, setting realistic goals, and consistently pursuing them, I aim to achieve personal and professional growth.”
Influence others by my deeds: “I strive to influence others positively through my deeds. By acting with kindness, integrity, and respect, I aim to inspire others to do the same and contribute to a more compassionate and respectful community.”

See Also: How to Write a Values Statement

A personal mission statement for a resume needs to be personalized to you and your unique values and moral, goals, and life circumstances. You may also want to adjust it depending on the context in which you’re using it – i.e. if you’re asked to make a personal mission for work, then it’d likely incorporate elements of your job into it.

Also note that you’re always free to adjust your personal mission statement over time, so create one that’s true to you right now, but be willing to adjust it every few months.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is IQ? (Intelligence Quotient)
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (With Examples)

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Summary. To write a personal mission statement should first identify your core values and goals and brainstorm on your work and life missions. Be sure to mention professional and personal skills that can be used to achieve your goals. Your personal mission statement should be brief and concise in a single sentence.

Like corporate mission statements, personal mission statements are short overviews of why you do what you do, and they can be effective ways of helping coworkers or potential employers get to know you. They can also focus your work and decision-making, so it’s important to spend some time thinking through your personal mission statement.

In this article, we’ll go over how to write a personal mission statement, some examples of these statements, and how having a personal mission statement can help you at work.

Key Takeaways

A personal mission statement should be one sentence long.

Your personal mission statement communicates the “why” behind your work.

Having a personal mission statement will help you decide what to prioritize and will help you introduce yourself and your values to employers.

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement

Personal mission statement template and examples, tips for writing your personal mission statement, what is a personal mission statement, why is it important to have a personal mission statement, where can you use a personal mission statement, personal mission statement faq.

If you’re having trouble coming up with a personal mission statement, you’re not alone. Though it seems like a simple sentence, personal mission statements contain a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and even soul-searching when done correctly.

Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that crafting your own personal mission statement can be not only fun but illuminating. It can help you to identify and clarify the values that have been driving your working life. Here are some steps you can take to write a great personal mission statement:

Brainstorm on your work and life missions. As we’ve discussed, personal mission statements are deceptively compact, and these short statements contain a ton of information on how you navigate the working world.

For many people, we’ve never actually taken the time to think through our views on work and on life in general, or how these views intersect. Take the time to think this through and write down whatever comes up.

Identify your core values and goals. Read through your brainstorm journals, and highlight anything that sticks out to you as one of your key motivating values . This could be anything that drives you to do what you do in this world.

Perhaps you want to help people live safely and comfortably. Maybe you want to expand human knowledge or artistic possibilities. Perhaps you want to make people, or just one person, smile. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all your decision based upon what particular thing you feel called to do in this lifetime.

Recognize the skills you’ll use to enact your values. Each of us has special skills , both professional and personal, that we can use to achieve our goals. Mentioning these skills in your personal mission statement not only gives you an extra chance to show off your strengths but demonstrates that you are determined to use this skill proactively.

Edit for maximum impact. They say the key to excellent writing is packing as much information into as few words as possible, which holds true for a great personal mission statement. Your personal mission statement should be short, sweet, and to the point for maximum effectiveness.

Discuss with peers and mentors. Finally, if you’re still not sure how to write a mission statement acceptable for your contextual purposes, discuss it with your colleagues or professional mentors . You can ask about their personal mission statements, or just for a second pair of eyes on yours.

Personal Mission Statement Template

Your personal mission statement will have to be modified for grammar and syntax based on where and how it is used, but a great personal mission statement will address all of the following points in a single sentence:

What action(s) will you take to affect change?

What skills will you use?

What community or group of people will be affected?

What change do you wish to affect/ what result do you want to have?

It could look something like this:

“To use [skill] to [verb describing your work] [community affected by your work] [desired result of your work]”

However, please keep in mind that this is entirely personal and contextual. If it ends up sounding awkward, you can always rephrase out and take out any parts you like. You can even simplify it to only your desired impact or result.

Personal Mission Statement Examples

To use my creative talents to teach inner-city high schoolers about the ways that art can uplift their spirit and change their perspective.

To bring joy to those around me.

To write stories that remind us of our humanity.

To use my writing skills to increase nonprofit funding and create a more equitable world.

To create a new era of marketing focused on ethics, sustainability, and transparency.

To engineer commercial products that make our lives easier and better.

To bring comfort and attentive care to patients at the end of their lives.

To be happy, healthy, and do no harm.

To create innovative technology that changes the way we live our lives.

To help women of color find success in corporate positions through one-on-one, intersectional consultations.

To never stop learning.

To create software that enhances user security with a streamlined process.

To inform policies that will tackle the climate crisis head-on and save the planet.

To give my clients beautiful, easy-to-use web pages that will help them expand their online businesses.

To use my talents to invest in my community.

To serve as a mentor , apply my values to every decision, and make a difference in people’s lives.

To fight until every child has a free and fair chance at education.

To use my unique gifts.

To keep people informed on global issues and create a more connected world.

To foster a more accessible world with disability-conscious designs.

To create and record beautiful wedding memories for my clients.

To help those around me grow in their talents and use them to better the world.

To provide excellent care to every patient every day.

To bring beauty to the world around me.

To make every child feel like the most important person in the room.

To help my clients live the fullest, healthiest lives possible.

Here are some final tips for crafting your perfect personal mission statement:

Be brief. Keep it as concise as you can in a single, straightforward sentence. It should be easy to remember and immediately clear. If you’d like, you can even narrow it down to three words representing the essence of your statement and sparsely add in words for clarity.

Be honest. The worst way to write a personal mission statement is to say what you think others want to hear, regardless of whether you believe it. Your statement should be a genuine reflection of you, and if it isn’t, it doesn’t serve much of a purpose.

Be open. If you are cynical, be open to the process. It’s okay if this doesn’t turn out to be the best way for you to express yourself, but it can still help figure out what drives you on your deepest level.

Being vulnerable about our deepest drives, motivations, and values can be scary. This is because we’ve been told so often in our lives – both directly and indirectly – that the things we want and value are wrong, or they don’t matter.

Be teachable. Your mission statement can feel highly personal, so it can be difficult to ask for feedback on it. However, you need to have someone you trust read it to check it for errors and to make sure you’re communicating clearly and effectively.

When they do give you feedback, take it graciously and remember that it isn’t a personal attack — they’re just trying to help you.

A personal mission statement, sometimes called a vision statement, outlines your deepest purpose for working. It gives a quick synopsis of your goals and values in your working life, and it can help you make decisions that align with your purpose.

Personal mission statements are typically in the format of a single sentence or short phrase that shows how you define yourself as a person and a member of an organization. It shows, quickly, how and why you work.

Personal mission statements can be used in a variety of ways, both for your own personal benefit and as a way of helping others get to know you. They can be used on resumes , college applications, professional social media profiles, and more.

Even just keeping this statement in mind can help radically shift the choices you make in your work life. This is because personal mission statements also act as a guide for our behavior. Figuring out the right choice in any area of life can be a difficult and time-consuming task, but with your mission statement in mind, the right choice might be a little bit clearer.

Personal mission statements are important because they can help with the enormous task of figuring out your deepest purpose for your work life and choices.

We get it; you may be thinking, “my deepest purpose for working is to make money and survive,” and that’s perfectly fair. You do need to make money to survive in this world, and we aren’t discounting the strong influence that can have on the career decisions you make.

However, the point of a personal mission statement is to, in a small way, carve out the life you want for yourself and the world you want to create. Your personal mission statement isn’t about what you do to put food on the table; it’s about what you would do with your life if money were no object.

For these reasons, a personal mission statement can be incredibly powerful. It’s a short, quippy line that you can easily remember and call upon for big and small choices. It can help you recognize which opportunities and choices will help you achieve your aims and which ones won’t. This is invaluable for creating career boundaries and long-term plans.

Your statement can help you assess anything from whether you fit into a given corporate culture to which projects you can take on, and more.

Successful people are clear on their goals and values, and they have the empowering belief that they can and will create a life for themselves that honors these goals and values. A mission statement is a signifier to those who may work with you that you are determined and clear and won’t settle for lesser choices.

Personal mission statements have several possible applications, whether you’re introducing yourself to someone, making important decisions, or just going about your day-to-day work life. Here are some examples of how to use a personal mission statement in your life:

Starting a new project. Before starting on a new task or project at work, start with your mission. Figuring out the bottom line of why you are about to engage in something helps you complete it more successfully and with a renewed passion. It also helps you to avoid rote ways of doing something in favor of results-focused innovation .

Daily tasks and choices. Even small decisions can be approached more effectively if the “why” is kept in mind from the start. Keeping your statement in mind during work, or even keeping it framed and in sight at your office, helps you feel more fulfilled in your work life and with the tasks you take on. They all have a larger purpose.

Scheduling. Your mission statement can be a wonderful guide for how you spend your day. Keep track of the tasks you do daily and how they contribute to your larger goals. There may be areas where you’re over-exerting time and energy on a task that doesn’t mean that much in the grand scheme of things (or, you may be experiencing the opposite).

Job-hunting. If you’re currently searching for new opportunities, your mission statement can be one of your most powerful guides in deciding what jobs to apply for and take on. Take time to research the company and see if its mission is compatible with yours.

In your resume, cover letter, or portfolio . Your personal mission statement can be worked into your application materials in a few ways. You could include it in your resume summary or objective statement , in the first paragraph of your cover letter , or even in the header of your website.

During interviews. Introducing yourself professionally can be a bit of a task, but a mission statement makes it easy. Using your statement to inform your answers to interview questions helps the interviewer see that you have strong values and integrity .

What is the purpose of a personal mission statement?

The purpose of a personal mission statement is to clearly define your goals and helps outline your purpose for working. A personal mission statement is a short statement that shows how you define yourself as a person and a member of an organization. A personal mission statement should be similar to how a company shares their mission statement.

What should be included in a personal mission statement?

A personal mission statement should include what you want to accomplish and contribute and it should include what you want to be. You want to figure out what your personal and professional goals are first. This will help you determine what your statement will be and what you need to do to accomplish it.

How long should a personal mission statement be?

A personal mission statement should be one sentence. You should not have more than 50 words in your mission statement. Personal mission statements should be kept short and to the point.

James Madison University – Crafting Your Personal Mission Statement

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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How To Write A Personal Mission Statement (And 28 Mission Statement Examples)

Do you have a personal mission statement ?

If not, you should.

Early in my career, I was inspired to create one when I worked in public relations for the JCPenney Company.

James Cash Penney, the founder of the once giant retailer, based his business philosophy on one simple personal mission statement: “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you” — the Golden Rule.

In fact, his first store was called The Golden Rule.

This mission statement permeated every aspect of how Mr. Penney ran his business.

He asked for a “fair remuneration and not all the profits the traffic will bear,” and was the first to call employees “associates,” and he treated them like family.

During the stock market crash in the 1920's, Mr. Penney lost his personal fortune and took a loan against his life insurance in order to pay the associates' salaries.

What Is a Personal Mission Statement?

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One of my favorite quotes from Mr. Penney is this:

“Give me a stock clerk with a goal, and I'll give you a man who will make history. Give me a man with no goals, and I'll give you a stock clerk.”

Mr. Penney understood the value of having goals that reflect your mission and how they can change the course of your life.

His goals for himself and his company were grounded in his personal mission statement of the Golden Rule.

woman thinking, personal mission statement

Knowing his mission statement, it was much easier to build his business and remain focused.

Businesses create mission statements to provide purpose and direction for the organization.

But it's as vital for individuals to have a personal mission and a vision for themselves as it is for any business.

A personal mission statement is:

A tool for making difficult decisions.
A framework for how you want to live your life and express your life mission.
A beacon to those around you about the kind of person you are.
A declaration that motivates and inspires you to stay the course.
A statement of your values and life priorities.

Creating a personal mission statement forces clarity, helps you define a plan of action, and serves as the foundation for your life goals.

It also helps you identify the underlying reasons for your choices and behaviors and what truly motivates you to make positive change.

As the author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People , Stephen Covey, says your mission statement is about “defining the personal, moral and ethical guidelines within which you can most happily express and fulfill yourself.”

Writing down your mission statement on paper makes it real.

Your personal mission statement becomes your own personalized constitution — the basis for life-directing decisions, as well as making daily choices that impact you and those around you.

We put together a mission statement template (pdf) for you to download and print.

Use the personal mission statement template to write your own clear and concise personal vision for yourself .

Click here to download the template now.

How To Write a Personal Mission Statement

Think of a person in history or in your life whom you admire.

What are the qualities of that person that you would like to emulate?

These qualities can relate to their character , values, achievements, personality , or simply the way they live their lives.

Consider the specific reasons you admire the person and list those qualities in detail.

Define the type of person you want to become, not just what you want to have or achieve.

This ideal should reflect your core values and your definition of living with integrity.

person writing, personal mission statement

Consider all areas of your life, as a spouse, friend, employee, parent, etc. and who you want to be in each of those roles.

I find it helpful to write down the phrase, “As an ideal spouse (or friend, parent, etc.), I want to . . . .” Then fill in the end of the sentence with as many outcomes as you wish to become.

For example, you might write: As an ideal spouse, I want to:

Express my love daily in words, affection, and action;
Be supportive and attentive to my spouse's needs;
Work through conflict calmly and in the spirit of compromise;
Be fully present and emotionally intimate.

This exercise may take some time, but it is well worth the effort beyond its usefulness for your mission statement.

It helps you clarify your personal operating system and reminds you of what you are capable of becoming.

Determine all of your life roles (career, family, community, etc.), and write down a short statement of how you would like to be described in each of those roles.

Think about how you would like the important people in your life to remember you and talk about you.

For example, you might want your boss to say, “He was a man of character and integrity who was a compassionate and inspiring leader and a visionary for our organization.”

This exercise may feel awkward, but no one else has to see it.

It is to help you decide how you want to step into each of the roles in your life and to clarify in concise words how you want others to perceive you.

Write down a personal mission statement for the four fundamental elements of who you are: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

In each of these areas, what is the most important way you want to express yourself?

This may seem confusing, but it's really simple. We tend to go about our lives without considering our goals for our essential being and how we want to direct that ambition.

So with this exercise, see yourself as CEO of each of these four areas. As CEO of your physical life, your purpose might be to treat your body as sacred by practicing fitness, healthy eating, daily affection, and pleasurable physical experiences.

Your plan for your mental life might be to become a life-long learner by expanding your skills, problem-solving, and challenging yourself.

What are the talents and skills you possess that are most important to you and that you actually enjoy?

Part of your personal mission statement should reflect your best aptitudes and strengths, these are what create joy and energy in our lives.

When we spend our time on what we do well and enjoy, our lives not only have meaning but also it has vibrancy.

Make a list of all of your personal and professional talents, aptitudes, and skills — even those you may take for granted, like being a good friend or having the ability to organize well.

Then circle the skills you enjoy or find fulfilling. Focus on these.

Based on everything you outlined above, what are some related goals you want to achieve in your life? Goals are specific, measurable, achievable, results-focused, and time-bound.

As you look at the people who inspired you, the ideal self you've defined, the legacy you want to leave, the aspirations you have for the elements of your life, and the aptitudes you want to enjoy, what are the outcomes you want to achieve for your life?

You might want to create goals for various areas of your life — from your relationships to your hobbies.

Taking into account steps 1-6, begin to write a personal mission statement.

Keep it simple, clear and relatively brief — from a few sentences to a couple of paragraphs.

You can write it as a statement that flows or with bullet points. How you craft it is less important than what you want to express.

The point is you want a statement that will guide you in your day to day actions and decisions, as well as your long-term goals. Try to keep your words positive and affirmative . Focus on what you want rather than what you don't want.

Creating a mission statement is not something you do in a day. It does require introspection, self-analysis, clarity of mind, and often several drafts before you produce it in a final form.

It might take several weeks or even months before you feel really comfortable with your life mission statement. Feeling like your personal mission statement is complete and a concise expression of your innermost values and directions may take a few iterations.

Once you complete it, put it where you can review it daily so it motivates you to honor it in all of your actions and decisions.

You might need to revise it every few years as your life priorities change.

Personal Mission Statement Examples

Here are some personal mission statement examples from around the web. (Sources: www.d.umn.edu , missionstatements.com , and msb.franklincovey.com )

My mission is to act as an instrument of positive change in my family, my work and my community. I will utilize all of the talents that God has given me and will participate in all aspects of my life with energy, purpose and gratitude. I will utilize my talents in strategy and administration to ensure that my home is loving and calm, my workplace is productive and positive and my community is responsive and growing. Through this focus I will give more than I take and will provide a positive role model for my children.

My mission in life is to have my own family. I need to remember that what I do now in my life will affect them. Because of this, I try my best to do the right things that will benefit my future. I would someday like to have a large farm with horses where I can help handicapped children. I'd like to work with animals, perhaps even be a veterinarian. Most of all, I want to have time for my family. So today, I will study hard and stay away from things that may hinder my dream from happening .

To find happiness, fulfillment, and value in living, I will seek out and experience all of the pleasures and joys that life has to offer. My core values are not limitations restraining me on this hedonistic quest for fun. Rather, they provide a framework for identifying, pursuing, and achieving those pleasures that last the longest and are the most satisfying. The greatest joy of all is being worthy of the respect and admiration of family, friends, and business associates.

To remember where I have been and where I will go through maintaining positive relationships with family and friends. To choose the ethical way by making a personal commitment to honesty and integrity. To find peacefulness within myself by looking inward while using my heart to guide my dreams and desires, and my mind to pursue knowledge, creating balance among all of my obligations. To content myself in my surroundings so I will always know where security lies within my life. To build a reputation of being dedicated to every goal I choose to pursue while having successes in both my personal and professional life. To enjoy every moment along this journey finding laughter, love, and happiness with each day that passes.

To be humble. To say thanks to God in some way, every day. To never react to abuse by passing it on. To find the self within that does and can look at all sides without loss. I believe in treating all people with kindness and respect. I believe by knowing what I value, I truly know what I want. To be driven by values and beliefs. I want to experience life’s passions with the newness of a child’s love, the sweetness and joy of young love, and the respect and reverence of mature love. Finally, to go through life with a smile on my face and a twinkle in my eye.

Here are some additional mission statement examples we've crafted for you:

My mission is to live a life without resentment. I will use my mind and all my talents and skills to keep my life focused on gratitude, love, and forgiveness — to live my best life and to help others do the same. I have no room in my life for negative self-talk, grudges, or for pointless regret. Every morning, my goal is to take another step forward, keeping my mind and heart trained on the present and on the words, “Thank you,” I want everyone in my life to know exactly how they’ve made it better.

My mission in life is to exercise my freedom to think as I choose to think. I choose to see the good in every person and every situation, however painful. No one makes me think or feel anything; I am responsible for my thoughts and feelings, and I choose to remain free, no matter what happens to me. I choose gratitude over resentment and compassion over criticism. I choose hope over despair. I choose to make my life count for something far greater than the space and time it occupies.

My mission in life is to bring joy to others, whether by word or action. I’ll do whatever it takes to make my place in the world better for those I share it with. My life will continue a chain reaction that someone else started and that somehow (for some reason) reached me. I won’t be where it stops, and I'll show others how to keep it going. From me, the chain reaction will reach even more people, who will make it their mission to bring joy and compassion to as many souls as possible.

Here are some examples of short mission statements from famous people and organizations.

9. “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou

10. “To be a teacher. And to be known for inspiring my students to be more than they thought they could be.” — Oprah Winfrey, Founder of OWN: the Oprah Winfrey Network

11. “I want to serve the people. And I want every girl, every child to be educated.” — Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Prize laureate and activist

12. “Improve lives. The concept of improving lives runs through the center of everything I do.” — Wil Smith, actor

13. “To use my gifts of intelligence, charisma, and serial optimism to cultivate the self-worth and net-worth of women around the world.” — Amanda Steinberg, Dailyworth.com

14. “Our mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” — Google

15. “Build the best product. Cause no unnecessary harm. Use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.” — Patagonia

16. “To accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.” — Tesla

17. “Help people perform better, think faster, and live better.” — Bulletproof

18. “Be the world’s favorite destination for discovering great value and unique selection.” — eBay

Here are some additional short mission statement examples we've created:

19. To create music that helps people struggling with mental illness to feel calm, loved, and in control. I will use my talent and skills to create medicine people can hear and feel.

20. To write books that help others struggling with the same challenges to know they’re not alone and to know what actions to take to change their lives for the better.

21. To open a shop that encourages every patron to bring more magic into their lives and to share it with others, with thoughtful and spirit-loving gift ideas.

22. To work as an inspired chef and to prepare meals that help the people in my community explore new flavors, new cultural recipes, and new perspectives.

23. To plant as many new, healthy trees as I can with the time I have and to inspire everyone to be responsible and loving stewards of the earth’s resources.

24. To create a place where unwanted cats and dogs will be loved and cared for and where they can bring love to patrons who come in for a soothing drink or comfort food.

25. To create a social media platform that runs on gratitude and compassion — with no room for negative attitudes , narrow mindedness, and self-centered criticism.

26. To be a therapist who makes my clients feel safe and strong enough to say anything, to dig deeper into their own thinking, and to love themselves just as they are.

27. To be a parent who helps my children love themselves, ask for help when they need it, and know what actions and words will help them reach their goals.

28. To build a legacy that will benefit my children, grandchildren, and beyond and give each of them something good to build on when creating their own.

Personal Mission Statement Generators

If you’re a fan of online quizzes, you might enjoy using a personal mission statement generator. Answer key questions and the generator uses them to create a clear and cohesive statement that reflects your highest values and goals.

It’s similar to a mission statement template but is automated and available as either an internet-based tool (or mobile app) or a software download.

Templates can be overwhelming because you see all the fields you need to fill out. And the thought of then gathering up your answers and distilling them into a powerful sentence or two is daunting enough without considering the time it’ll take to fill in all the blanks.

A mission statement generator uses a gentler, more interactive approach to engage the user and get them through all the questions as painlessly as possible.

The FranklinCovey Mission Statement Builder can help you create the following types — personal, family, team, and values-focused — with its free online tool.
LifeCoachesToolbox.com has a Mission Statement & Elevator Speech Generator to help you establish your brand identity and clarify your goals. Choose between the free online version (with ads) or the ad-free download for $39.

5 thoughts on “How To Write A Personal Mission Statement (And 28 Mission Statement Examples)”

How do I get a copy of Eight Steps to creating You Mission Statement?

Hello Barrie I wonder if you could help me. My daughter is a qaulified doctor, and the most gorgeous girl who has wonderful relationships with friends and family however since she met her boyfriend 4 years ago she has become a shadow of herself. Questioning who she is and deciding that she is the problem in their relationship and she is constantly changing to suit him however it doesn;t seem to be getting any better. She blames her past, not having a significant male figure in her life ; The problem is that her boyfriend is pushing her buttons and making her believe that he loves her and is reasonable and she is ending up the wreck. any advice on what I can do to help her. She says that he cried the other day and said he cant take her outbursts any longer. She got angry cause he stayed out all night and returned home in the morning. his excuse was that he didnt want to disturb her. Please help

Hi Deirdre, I’m so sorry your daughter is in such a difficult relationship. I know you are suffering for her as well. The problem isn’t her past, it’s her current decision to stay with someone who is emotionally abusive. You might suggest she read this post: https://liveboldandbloom.com/11/relationships/signs-of-emotional-abuse She also needs to meet with a counselor to discuss why she is staying in this relationship when it isn’t happy or healthy and how she can get strong again.

This is such a neat idea, and so very helpful. The one that truly got my attention is Consider Your Legacy. That really helps to re-frame our life’s picture, no? Thank you for this!

This is very helpful. Thank you for sharing.

Comments are closed.

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How to Write a Personal Mission Statement - With Examples

Last updated by Ashwin Ramachandran on Apr 01, 2024 at 01:09 PM | Reading time: 14 minutes

A personal mission statement plays a crucial role in helping you determine your objectives and beliefs. It essentially helps you understand your professional priorities. It further gives you a chance at making well-versed and informed career decisions.

A personal mission statement is quite easy to write. In fact, you can write a pleasing personal mission statement in minimal time. This article will help you understand some of the pro tips on how you can write an engaging personal statement .

Here's what this article will cover:

What is a personal mission statement, why write a personal vision statement, personal mission statement examples, steps- how to write a personal vision and mission statement, talk to your peers, identify the legacy you want to leave, what are good vision and mission statements, personal mission statement template, some tips to keep in mind, wrapping it up.

A personal mission statement, as previously stated, is a small yet precise statement that includes your core values, the kind of individual you are, and what success means to you. A personal mission statement is a one-stop solution to getting clarity on your goals, making reliable decisions for yourself, and even staying focused and motivated to accomplish your short and long-term goals. A personal mission statement thus helps in defining the line between decision making.

A personal mission statement is an extremely vital source of information that you must have to make precise and influential decisions for your career as a whole. It can help you create a strong foundation for your core values and objectives. A personal vision statement, moreover, plays a collective role in helping you distinguish your personal and professional life. From the way you wish and choose to spend your time, how you engage with people in your surroundings, and even how to do your job, a personal mission statement helps massively.

Given below are some of the prime personal mission statement examples. Go through each one of these personal vision and mission statement examples to get clarity on what exactly your personal mission statement should consist of.

To make a positive impact on every person I meet
To generate positive energy on every individual I interact with
To motivate and encourage every individual I come across
To establish new and developed opportunities for the millennial youth
To make a positive mark on the lives of people I love
To inspire people to create a life for themselves that they most desire
To utilize my writing skills to motivate people to make a change
To inspire children around the world to be better than yesterday
To relish my life's journey and learn crucial lessons along the way
To always be kind to me and others
To be a source of inspiration for others
To be a responsible leader to my team to live a healthy and balanced life
To utilize my gift of speech to boost the self-esteem of others
To always help anyone and everyone
To make vital healthcare policies, so others lead a thriving life
To be an honest and encouraging leader so that our group can formulate technologically advanced solutions
To be a source of inspiration to my students and impart important values to them through my teaching
To use my privilege to educate women around the world
To bring prosperity and happiness to people across the globe
To be a source of hope for men, women, and children
To create change by means of teaching
To help others identify their greatest strengths
To equip everyone around me with essential resources to accomplish their dream goals
To celebrate and support my loved ones
To give children the right raw materials and support for growing into their best potential
To help improve the quality of life of people around me
To help students become inspired enough to go after their dreams
To share motivating stories with children to boost their motivation to achieve their goals
To share essential insights and my knowledge with people to educate them
To make use of my skills and gifts in the best possible way to improve the lives of the others
To make use of technology in the best way possible to improve the lives of others
To leave the world behind in a much better place than I initially found it
To respect myself enough to reach my highest potential
To inspire and educate the young youth and make them more empathetic, kind, and efficient individuals
To treat every individual with kindness, love, and compassion
To create an influential impact on the lives of my loved ones
To help people appreciate every small thing in life.
To build hope among individuals to push them to achieve their dreams.
To inspire my friends and family in every way I can
To spread positivity, optimism, and humility to everyone I go
To offer moral support and motivation to everyone around me
To share my wisdom with others to helps them become considerate and compassionate individuals
To make use of my gifts and skills for enhancing the wealth and self-worth of women across the world
To never stop going after my life goals
To offer my complete empathy and compassion to every individual I encounter

Now that you know the mission statement definition , let’s read more about some essential steps on how to write a personal mission statement. These steps can help you make your personal mission statement as clear as possible.

Identify your achievements in the past

Take a significant time off of your schedule to determine your previous achievements. While creating a personal mission statement, keep in mind that you have to write a statement in a way that helps in determining your goals and dreams better. Jot down a few of your recent successes into a paper and ask yourself the following questions- Are you more successful than you were? Did you enjoy your success journey, or was it forceful and stressful?

Note that this doesn’t necessarily have to involve your professional life questions only. Cover even the least essential aspect of your life, starting from relationships, career, health, lifestyle, and so on. This activity is essential to understand your strengths and identify your weaknesses.

Make Note of the core values and objectives you wish to cultivate

The next step of creating a personal mission statement is to note down your values as a person. Every individual grows with their values. Values not only shape your life but also help you introspect on who you were as a person and how you’ve evolved ever since. Your core values and core goals go hand in hand. Most of us don’t just aim to accomplish our goals but also to grow our core values to stay mentally and physically healthy.

Your personal vision statement shouldn’t incorporate more than two values. Thus, make a list of all the values that define you as an individual and choose two of them that are more valuable than the rest.

Write down what’s most important to you

Another exceptional and helpful step for writing a personal mission statement is to reflect on the most crucial and vital aspects of your life. Give yourself some time to thoroughly think about who you want to be. Take down some notes on everything that’s important to you. This can be anything from your personal as well as professional life. Write about people and things that are most valuable to you and connect them to each other to understand how they make your life better.

Note down the differences you can make around your surrounding

Coming to the more precise elements, identify how you make an impact on some of the most focal aspects of your life. For instance, these focal aspects maybe your family, community, friends, world, employer, and so on. This is to help you determine how you can impact the lives of people around you and the world in general. This can help build a sense of gratitude for the life you have. Further, it can build your motivation to accomplish your life goals. If you’re appreciative and grateful for everything you have, the more impact you’ll make on the above-mentioned aspects.

Articulate your most important goals

Now that you’ve determined your imperative goals, it’s time to understand a bit more about yourself. Jot down all your prime goals into one single paper. Write about why your goals matter so much to you and how you can accomplish these long and short-term goals.

Ask yourself questions like where you see yourself five years from now. Questions like this can help you draw clarity between the life you have and the life you want. A few other questions that you should reflect on include, where would you like to see yourself on a professional level? What do you want to accomplish personally? What are some of the qualities that help you stand out as an individual?

Another crucial step on how to write a personal mission statement is to engage with your peers. Your mentors and peers know you the best. They know your greatest strengths and even your potential. Thus, asking them what makes you distinctive from the others and what skills you possess can help you identify your core strengths. Human beings thrive on validation. We all like to be validated by our mentors, friends, and everyone we know. Thus, a great way to boost your confidence and identify your goals is to engage with your peers.

Each one of us wants to leave a mark behind on the world. If you’re one of those people who want to be remembered for all your good deeds, you might want to start determining the legacy you wish to leave behind. Identify how the skills you possess make you an influential individual in this overly competitive world. Given below are some questions you should start asking yourself.

What do you wish to establish, alter, or regulate for the long term?
How exactly do you want the world to change when you leave it?
Which skill set is one of your greatest assets?
Who would you like to influence with your capabilities and skills, and how?
What are some of the abilities, personality traits, qualities, and achievements that you possess?
What vision or mission motivates you the most?
Prepare your mission statement

The above-mentioned steps contribute to helping you understand what needs to go into writing a personal mission statement for yourself. Once you confirm your vision, it’s time to put it into words. Write down the ‘how’ for the respective goal. In a nutshell, the most simple way of doing this is to combine everything you learned from the last few steps. Let your achievements and goals create a mission for yourself. Introspect on the above steps and design a purpose for yourself. On doing this, you will have written down a vision mission statement for yourself.

Review your vision and mission statement

The last and final step of writing your vision and mission statement is to ask for feedback. You can show your statement to someone you feel comfortable with. Get feedback and make relevant changes if any of the suggestions are beneficial. Make sure to avoid going overboard and modifying your vision and mission statement obsessively. Make use of feedback as constructive criticism, but also believe yourself enough not to modify your statement entirely.

Vision and mission statements shouldn’t exceed more than 50 words. As suggested, the statements must be precise, crisp and should summarize your core values and purpose as an individual. An impressive tip to enhance your vision and mission statement is to write a compelling yet realistic vision and mission statement. They should include your values and goals that balance out your personal and professional life. The three chief questions that your vision mission statement should direct include- What are your passions?, What is something that sets you aside from the rest of the people? What are some of your core values?.

Remember that the very purpose is a personal purpose statement is to inspire you to accomplish your core life objectives. Write a highly inspiring, accurate, and passionate vision mission statement that motivates you to work hard.

Along with learning how to write a personal mission statement, you should also take a look at a template so that you can come up with compelling statements. A standard personal mission statement template that might come in handy is as follows-

‘I aim to/ action/ for/ respective audience/ by/ skill sets/ to/ desires outcome’

Here are some excellent ways to improve your personal purpose statement. Make sure to read the above mentioned personal purpose statement examples and these tips to excel at writing a personal mission statement. You can also make use of a personal mission statement generator to frame a statement for yourself.

Make it short and precise-

The most vital tip that you should adhere to is to write a short yet relevant personal mission statement. As showcased in the above mentioned personal mission statement examples for work, make sure to write a brief sentence that describes your values and purpose. Short statements are easier and more engaging to read. Thus, they will inspire you to do more in your life.

Be realistic-

Do not, in any way, write falsified information in your personal statement. The statement serves the purpose of boosting your motivation to improve your professional and personal life. Thus, being true to yourself is essential to growing as an individual.

Make proper use of constructive criticism-

As previously suggested, feedback can tremendously help you improve your personal statement. Thus, make the best use of it.

These were some guidelines on how to write a personal mission statement. Use these tips and instructions to formulate a remarkable vision mission statement for yourself.

Ashwin Ramachandran

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37 Inspiring Mission Statement Templates (Business or Personal) ᐅ
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Personal Mission Statement Worksheet
Step-by-Step Guide to Why and How to Write a Personal Mission Statement
37 Inspiring Mission Statement Templates (Business or Personal) ᐅ

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How to Write a Personal Mission Statement!
Step by Step Process for Creating a Personal Mission Statement
How to write a personal mission statement with example
How to write Personal Mission Statements
How To Create A Powerful Personal Mission Statement
How to Create a Personal Mission Statement

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How To Write a Personal Mission Statement (40 Examples)
Here are several examples of personal mission statements to help inspire you as you write your own. "To serve as a leader by encouraging innovative ideas and forward-thinking so that our team can create technology solutions that will improve the lives of others." "To use my writing skills to inspire and educate others around the world to make a ...
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (20 Examples)
Example 3: Parent. As a parent, your mission could be to nurture, teach, and support your children, preparing them for the future. Example: "To provide a loving, enriching environment for my children, empowering them with the tools to succeed and grow.". Personal SWOT Analysis: Unlock Your Potential in 4 Steps.
5 Steps to Write Your Personal Mission Statement (with examples)
Kind. Family-centric. Compassionate. Rational. Factoring the people and things that matter most into your personal mission statement will help put you on the right track. It will give you the incentive you need to make a plan that you'll not only want to stick with, but will have a much higher rate of success.
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement: 40+ Examples
1. Personal Mission Statement Examples. Let's see some great examples of personal mission statements. "To simplify the complicated". "To inspire success through teaching". "To create the best version of tomorrow". "To be kind to others and myself". "To improve lives through better healthcare".
Personal Mission Statement
Resume mission statement examples. "Lead by encouraging creative thinking necessary for innovative solutions.". "Use my imagination and graphic design skills to engage consumers.". "Promote safety, well-being, and self-confidence for children and young adults as a mental health counselor.".
Step-by-Step Guide to Why and How to Write a Personal Mission Statement
A personal mission statement identifies who you are, what your purpose is, and how you define success - in the office and/or in your personal life. It's a 1-2 sentence maxim, about 30-40 words, that describes how you intend to work toward that purpose, and why it matters so much to you.
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement
Sometimes a personal mission statement is just one sentence. In that case, it could be: To do [X Action] for [Y group of people] to [have Z impact] with [optional: other details]. It's okay to ...
Here's How to Write an Impressive Personal Mission Statement [Examples
Take a look at the following examples to help inspire your own personal mission statement. 1. "To serve as a leader, live a balanced life, and apply ethical principles to make a significant difference" -- Denise Morrison, Campbell Soup Company. 2. "If something is important enough you should try, even if the probable outcome is failure" -- Elon ...
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement That Guides Your Career
Clarifies Goals and Priorities: A personal mission statement requires reflection on your values, aspirations, and long-term objectives. By articulating what matters most to you professionally, you gain clarity on your career goals and can prioritize your efforts accordingly. Guides Decision-Making: With a clear mission statement, you have a ...
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement by Answering 5 Questions
Personal Mission Statement Examples. Finding the perfect wording for your mission statement can be a challenge. To give you some inspiration, here are some examples readers have shared with me: "To inspire positive change through teaching and coaching." "To create opportunities for today's youth." "To encourage, engage, and equip others to believe in the possibilities." "To ...
55 Personal Mission Statement Examples (2024)
Here is my personal mission statement: "I will be generous with my time both with family and strangers. I will consciously and intentionally spend quality time with my parents, my wife, and my children. I will pass-on love of life and self-belief to my children by living as a positive example. I will commit my career to working on projects ...
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (With Examples)
Summary. To write a personal mission statement should first identify your core values and goals and brainstorm on your work and life missions. Be sure to mention professional and personal skills that can be used to achieve your goals. Your personal mission statement should be brief and concise in a single sentence.
How To Write A Personal Mission Statement (28 Examples)
Short Mission Statement Examples. Here are some examples of short mission statements from famous people and organizations. 9. "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.". — Maya Angelou.
How to Write a Personal Mission Statement
A personal mission statement, as previously stated, is a small yet precise statement that includes your core values, the kind of individual you are, and what success means to you. A personal mission statement is a one-stop solution to getting clarity on your goals, making reliable decisions for yourself, and even staying focused and motivated ...
PDF Personal Mission Statement Assignment
A mission statement should consider: Your values and personal beliefs. Your goals. What makes you happy. Your dreams and vision for your future. What you are good at. What you are passionate about. How you want others to perceive you. A mission statement should include:
55 Personal Mission Statement Examples for 2024
According to author and career coach Dan Miller, a good mission statement should reflect these three main aspects: 1. Your skills and abilities. 2. Your personality traits. 3. Your values, passions, and dreams. Other self-development experts and authors may suggest different approaches to writing your plan of action.
PDF Creating a Personal Mission Statement Activity Questions adapted from
Creating a Personal Mission Statement Activity Questions adapted from Quintessential Careers - Are You Living Your Life on Purpose Provide an overview of what mission statements are, their purpose and how mission statements can act to guide future actions and choices. Share examples of good mission statements with the students.
Personal Mission Statement Generator
5 Personal Mission Statement examples. 6 Keep Your Mission Statement Updated. 7 How to Use Your Personal Mission Statement. 7.1 Use it to Set Goals. 7.2 Use it to Make Major Life Decisions. 7.3 Use it to Set Priorities. 7.4 Use it to Plan Your Time. 7.5 Analyze Your Daily Habits.
Creating a Personal Mission Statement for a Purpose-Driven Life
A personal mission statement is a brief, powerful statement that defines your purpose in life. It encapsulates your values, goals, and the impact you want to make. Think of it as a personal constitution, a guide that helps you make decisions, set goals, and pursue a life of meaning. This concept is rooted in the understanding that clarity of ...
Module 4 Assignment: Drafting Personal Mission Statement
Draft an academic personal mission statement in the box below. Do the following in your draft: a. Write a sentence or two summarizing your purpose for pursuing higher education and your proposed graduation date. ... Module 4 Assignment: Drafting Personal Mission Statement. Course: Success Strategies for Online Learning (SNHU107) 999+ Documents ...
PDF Personal Mission Statement Assignment
Personal Mission Statement Assignment. Please take some time to read the following information on creating a mission statement connected to your purpose and identity as a TCNJ student. Complete the contemplative portion of this worksheet and use it to create a mission statement that will guide your decisions and actions as you continue your ...
61+ Personal Mission Statement Examples for a Better Life
Personal Mission Statement Examples. To channel my creativity and drive into every endeavor, blending innovation with a relentless work ethic. My mission is to break boundaries, set new standards in my field, and inspire a generation to dream big and work hard.
How To Write A Personal Mission Statement (With Examples)
Personal Mission Statement Examples for Students. "To be kind to others and true to me.". "To help as many people as possible.". "To inspire others to achieve greatness.". "To make this world a better place through small acts of kindness.". "To bring joy to others.". "To educate others all over the world with my writing ...

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (20 Examples)

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement: 20 Inspiring Examples

Key Components

Creating Your Personal Mission Statement

Setting Your Goals

Writing Your Statement

Examples of Personal Mission Statements

Example 1: Student

Example 2: Career Professional

Example 3: Parent

Example 4: Retiree

Example 5: Entrepreneur

Example 6: Freelancer

Example 7: Community Volunteer

Example 8: Environmentalist

Example 9: Artist

Example 10: Innovator

Top-20 Examples of Personal Mission Statements:

Your Personal Mission Statement Guide: Why and How to Write One (With 10+ Examples and 3 Templates)

In This Guide:

Upload & Check Your Resume

When planning your days

When planning a project

On your resume, or in your cover letter or portfolio

On social media

While looking for work

Identify what you value

Lean on your Network

Pick your goals

What will your upshot be?

Write your statement

Keep these tips in mind to perfect your personal mission statement.

For a resume or a LinkedIn Profile

Career motto personal mission statements

Company Mission Statements

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

Here's How to Write an Impressive Personal Mission Statement [Examples & Template]

What is a personal mission statement?

Personal Mission Statement Examples

How to write a personal mission statement

Personal Mission Statement Template

Featured Resource: 5 Cover Letter Templates

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Personal Mission Statement Examples

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Bonus: Family Mission Statements

Use This Free Worksheet to Create Your Own Personal Mission Statement

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55 Personal Mission Statement Examples

Personal Mission Statement Examples

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How to Write a Personal Mission Statement (With Examples)

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement

Personal Mission Statement Template

Personal Mission Statement Examples

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How To Write A Personal Mission Statement (And 28 Mission Statement Examples)

What Is a Personal Mission Statement?

How To Write a Personal Mission Statement

Personal Mission Statement Examples

Personal Mission Statement Generators

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How to Nail your next Technical Interview

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement - With Examples

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Ashwin Ramachandran

What is Diffing? How Does it Impact Code Management?