How to Write a Personal Mission Statement in Career Goals

An unreached goal is merely a dream deferred.

One of the greatest mistakes you can make as a professional is not having a clear vision of your goals. It doesn't matter if you are returning to the workforce after a long sabbatical or are a frustrated worker looking to make major career changes. Knowing what motivates you and having a plan of action are important parts of creating a statement that says it all.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Pen or pencil
• Writing paper

Instructions

1. List your core beliefs or values. These are what compel you to strongly support certain causes, select your career path and may even lead you to turn down job offers, if they are not in sync with your personal values.

2. List the three aspects of your career that are most meaningful to you, e.g., working with homeless animals, receiving thank-you letters from happy clients, providing medical care to war veterans.

3. Describe the impact you want to make on a personal and professional level through the use of your talents and knowledge. For instance, if you plan to use your creativity and green thumb to teach gardening classes in your community each weekend, you could mention how your classes would benefit participants. It may give them a greater appreciation for nature or help them develop skills to grow their own herbs.

4. Create a mission statement that incorporates your core values, the three most meaningful aspects of your career and the impact you want to make.

5. Reread your mission statement to make sure it is one that will inspire you to achieve your short or long-term goals on a daily basis.

6. Print your statement, and post it on your refrigerator at home, in your home office or any other place where you know you will see it often.

7. Write out the things you must do in order to achieve the goals stated in your mission statement. For instance, if your mission statement involves starting a gardening club program that would be rolled out to local high schools, you could write out the steps needed to start a program of this nature in your area.

Tips & Warnings

• Your mission statement can be as long as you wish, but it would be easier to review on a daily basis if it is 30 words or less. It is a personal document designed to keep you focused on your ultimate career goals.

• Do not limit your personal mission statement to career goals. Fitness goals, educational goals and even goals related to managing your personal finances can be achieved when you create a personal mission statement dedicated to each goal.

References

• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA): Finding balance and purpose