How to Write Your Personal Mission Statement: A Jewish Approach to Purpose and Action
In a world where businesses put mission statements at the center of their success, how many of us have considered crafting a statement for our own lives? Rabbi Simon Jacobson inspires us to see that a personal mission statement is more than words—it’s a declaration that brings intention, direction, and purpose to every day.
The Power of Clarity
Imagine a company with no clear mission. Employees feel lost and decisions become guesswork. This same uncertainty can easily seep into our personal lives. Instead, a thoughtful mission statement brings clarity, helping us filter distractions and guide decisions. As one attendee at a recent talk reflected, focusing her life around a personal mission allowed her to walk away from draining commitments and invest her energy where it mattered most.
Why You Need a Personal Mission Statement
Rabbi Jacobson poses an essential question: If Google, Starbucks, and other corporations thrive with a focused mission, why shouldn’t each person have that same sense of purpose? Everyday goals like “being happy” or “providing for family” are too vague. A mission statement is about defining what truly sets you apart and what impact you want to have.
- Example: Google’s mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible.
- Example: Starbucks aims to create a culture of warmth and belonging, one cup at a time.
Your personal mission can be just as clear and powerful—anchored in personal values and the Jewish perspective that every individual has a unique role to fulfill.
Steps to Discover Your Mission
- Reflect on Patterns: Review your life experiences, challenges, and triumphs. What themes keep appearing? Which moments made you feel most alive and connected?
- Assess Key Elements: Rabbi Jacobson points to four: Personality (your strengths), Opportunity (resources around you), People (influential relationships), and Places (the environments that shape you).
- Write a Draft: Start simple. Write one sentence that describes the difference you want to make in the world. Refine it over time, making it both specific and meaningful.
- Share and Apply It: Like a company, share your mission with people who matter to you. Let it influence decisions both big and small—what projects you take on, how you spend your time, and how you respond to challenges.
Jewish Wisdom on Life’s Mission
Jewish tradition teaches that each soul descends into this world with a unique purpose. This Torah principle is not just a lofty idea—it’s a practical roadmap. Integrating this wisdom means recognizing your talents are gifts for your mission, your struggles are customized opportunities for growth, and your actions ripple out far beyond yourself.
Putting It All Into Practice
The process of writing your personal mission statement can transform your approach to daily living, relationships, and spiritual growth. Rabbi Simon Jacobson’s approach reminds us that, whether through journaling, discussion, or meditation, the journey itself deepens your sense of meaning and connection.
Start today by asking: What gives my life purpose? What legacy do I want to leave? Your mission statement can become your compass—helping you choose wisely and live more intentionally, day by day.
For deeper insights and illustrative stories, watch the full class: Watch Here.
