According to Merriam Webster’s dictionary, purpose is something that is set up as an object or an end to be attained. Purpose is also seen as an intention or determination. To have a purpose is to propose to do or to have an aim to oneself.
In his book, In Pursuit of Purpose, Dr. Myles Munroe shows these varying definitions on the word purpose:
Purpose is…
- The original intent for the creation of a thing
- The original reason for the existence of a thing
- The end for which the means exist
- The cause for the creation of a thing
- The desired result that initiates production
- The need that makes a manufacturer produce a specific product
- The destination that prompts the journey
- The expectation of the source
- The objective for the subject
- The aspiration for the inspiration
- The object one wills or resolves to have
Dr. Munroe further explains that without purpose, life is an experiment or a haphazard journey that results in frustration, disappointment and failure. Without purpose, life is subjective or is a trial and error game that is ruled by environmental influences and the circumstances of the moment. Likewise, in the absence of purpose, time has no meaning, energy has no reason, and life has no precision. Therefore, it is essential that we understand and discover our purpose in life, so that we can experience an effective, full and rewarding life. (Pgs. 5 & 6, In Pursuit of Purpose, Dr. Myles Munroe, Destiny Image Publishers, 1992)
Why do we aspire to be a leader? What do we hope to accomplish? It is not enough to want a title so we can feel good about ourselves. There has to be a clear purpose and a significant reason for leadership.
“When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is happy.” — Proverbs 29:18 (NLT)
Purpose Harnesses You to Your Destiny and Reason for Being.
In leadership, purpose harnesses the abilities, skills, and talents of every individual and ties their efforts together in a cohesive, effective and efficient way. Purpose is to leadership as gravity is to all of life. Without gravity, we would all float about randomly in every direction. There would be no specific destination to reach because we could not set a course and stick to it. This type of leadership—with no inherent purpose—is domed to fail.
Purpose Clarifies Leadership, Vision and Mission.
When you understand your purpose as a leader, it becomes the springboard for success at every level of your organization and leadership structure. Purpose helps you to write out clear, detailed and specific objectives for everyone involved. By providing a clear purpose, you will be able to maximize the energies of those on your team, thus harnessing the power of the entire structure and ensuring the optimal objective and profit of the organization. A clear purpose also allows each organizational process to mesh together with the overall vision because it is tied into the organization’s purpose. And as the leader you can create cohesiveness among the organization’s departments to the overall vision.
Purpose Creates an Atmosphere of Certainty and Boldness.
When you identify your purpose as a leader, you gain an outstanding level of boldness. You derive new strength and fortitude to give people directions and instructions that engage them in multi-pronged efforts that benefit all who are involved. This ultimately ensures that the purpose of your organization or mission is accomplished effectively and accurately.
Purpose Creates a Sense of Belonging and Satisfaction.
In the Apostle Paul’s letters to Timothy you can see just how confident and satisfied Paul was as he faithfully followed the vision and purpose God had placed on his shoulders:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” — 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NKJV)
Purpose Connects You to the Right People and Places.
Purpose in leadership will connect you to the right people—those who are best suited to work with you. The clearer the purpose, the greater the potential for the right type of people, the right type of employees or the right kind of co-laborers that will be attracted to you. The Lord Jesus attracted men who later went on to themselves become great apostles. Similarly, Paul attracted such men as Timothy and Titus, who supported his ministry endeavors. And King David attracted men who had been in distress, in debt, and discontented. But because of their relationship with David they became great warriors. Each of these leaders attracted people who were like-minded and who enjoyed serving in a similar life call. The result was a win-win situation because everyone benefited from their mutual connection. Likewise, your purpose will also attract like-minded people to help you fulfill your responsibilities as a leader. On the other hand, purpose will also disconnect you from others. Many stopped following Jesus when He revealed His purpose on earth.
“But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Author’s emphasis) — John 6:64-69 (KJV)
Paul mentioned that there were those who had stopped walking with him: 2 Timothy 4:9-11a (NIV). You may believe that people naturally want to serve in your purpose, but that is simply not the case. Your purpose will attract some and repel others. Always remember: it is better to work with ten people who are loyal to a common, clear purpose than to work with one hundred people who have a different purpose and agenda.
Applying wisdom to everyday life for extraordinary results,
Victor Nazario
