Not too long ago, I experimented with a moustache and goatee. It wasn’t a conscious decision, just a whim for a new look. To my surprise, someone remarked that I resembled Colonel Sanders. I’m still processing that one. As you might know, Colonel Sanders, with his iconic fried chicken recipe, had 11 special and secret herbs and spices that elevated both his chicken and his brand into legend.
These mysterious spices, though cryptic and closely guarded, formed the foundation of his success. Each herb had its place, its significance, and together they harmonized to create his recipe for success.
“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” – Mark Twain
Now, leadership isn’t quite like fried chicken. There’s no direct comparison except for one crucial aspect—they’re both end products, results of following a recipe.
In this series, we’ll delve into each “herb” of leadership, examining how distinct aspects of leadership contribute to a collective, desired outcome. We’ll explore each characteristic’s unique “flavor” profile and, more importantly, how we can identify and embody these traits in our own leadership styles. It’s not just about understanding what they are but also about integrating them into our daily practices.
The Cornerstone of Leadership—Purpose.
Finding purpose is akin to finding the key ingredient in a recipe. It’s the foundation upon which everything else is built. Purpose imbues everything we do with meaning. It guides our choices, our successes, our failures, and ultimately, how we live our lives. It’s the filter through which every thought, word, and action passes.
But how do we discover our purpose? It’s not always a straightforward journey. It requires introspection, reflection, and sometimes, a bit of trial and error. Here are some questions to kickstart your exploration:
- What are your core values?
- What does your ideal day look like?
- What activities ignite your passion?
- What comes naturally to you?
- What do others praise you for?
- What’s on your bucket list?
- How do you measure success in your life?
These questions can be applied individually or expanded to team or organizational levels to shape culture and direction.
As you contemplate these questions, remember to give yourself grace and space. Discovering purpose isn’t a race; it’s a journey that unfolds over time. Embrace the uncertainty and unexpectedness of the process.
You may find that your purpose has been there all along, waiting to be acknowledged. Or perhaps, you’re just beginning to uncover it. Either way, let purpose be the guiding force in your personal and professional journey, enhancing every aspect of your life like salt on the kitchen table.
Activities to help you get closer to finding your purpose:
- Write out your personal philosophy.
- List the top five things you want to accomplish.
- Craft a legacy letter to your future self.
- Identify your core values and aspirations, aligning them to create a roadmap for your journey.
Remember, purpose isn’t just a destination; it’s a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth. Embrace it, and let it enrich every aspect of your life and leadership journey. Interested in learning more about the latest technology? Visit our blog or check out our locations.
