A number of years ago a good friend showed me how they keep their focus when too many responsibilities drag at their attention. In short – they maintain a mission statement and creed that they allow to guide their actions. By having a set of rules that they loosely apply to their life it allows them to do the right thing – instinctively.
Unlike the friend of mine who first introduced me to this strategy I always felt comfortable sharing mine with whoever was interested. In the early revisions it was always a paper document shared in the journal. However – as part of my efforts to make my life and ongoing goals a little more open I want to share it with you – online.
I'm very interested to hear what you think of my guiding principles and I hope some of you choose to use this tool for self improvement.
Mission Statement
My mission is to ensure that every day I am closer to my goal of being a friendly, productive and ecologically concious member of every community in which I participate.
To Fulfill this Mission:
I have Ideas: By making use of the diverse skills gathered from my habits of lifelong learning and wide range of jobs I can come up with unique solutions to complex problems which add value for my communities.
I have Character: My speech patterns, mannerisms, habits and skills are all as unique as fingerprints. I am free show them off and be proud of what they represent.
I have Value: Every act of creation brings new value into the world. By focusing on my ability to create both functional and artistic works I become a source of value.
I Resist: By refusing to fall victim to common mistakes of others I remain free to be a part of the greater society which I want to see grow. Learning from others and observing how they act provides a perspective which is impossible to see introspectively.
I Create: The works I create should positively foster the growth of their audience. By being a light in the relative darkness of popular media I can share my views of a better world and by doing so – help to propagate it.
Personal Creed
Breed the traits of success in myself and those who choose to surround me.
Live and act within the factors of the world where I have influence.
Allow others to watch, learn and lead by showing example, teaching and following.
Learn and grow by acknowledging the successes of others and participating in their celebrations.
Recognize and make use of all the facilities, resources and opportunities offered by my surroundings.
Develop my skills by being involved and working with with those who excel.
Build systems of self management by basing them on proven techniques.
Remember always that the world wants me to succeed but the core positive decisions to make it happen are my own responsibility.
Don’t try to learn everything. Focus on what you’re good at and trust specialists for the rest.
Offer examples of success before requesting freedom or opportunity.
Know and acknowledge my limitations and work to move past them.
Use today to prepare for tomorrow by making resources available before they’re needed.
Request help when personal limitations become cumbersome – it’s not strong to be a hero until you burn out.
Stress is natural and human – plan to take breaks before a break takes you.
Be involved in the construction of highly functional communities.
Actively advocate for pro-environmental policies when it’s within your power.
Music is a skill which many wish they had, continue it’s development before it becomes lost to time.
Live and work in a clean and organized personal space.
