That’s me! Actually, I’m behind the camera but that is so me. My friends would say the same. They see me in the features of my oldest son’s face but I see me in the nervousness. You know the feeling don’t you? It’s the feeling you get on the brink of a big change. It’s the what-have-I-done, did-I-make-the-right-decision feeling. It’s an emotion so powerful it keeps us from embarking on adventure just as we’re stepping out the door. Sam felt it this morning as he began his first day at a new school. Now its my turn.
For the last several years I’ve wrestled with questions related to my work. Does my work really matter? How does it make a difference in the world? Is it possible for me to be passionate about my work? In the struggle I’ve learned a thing or two about purpose:
- Purpose inspires – it brings meaning to our work.
- Purpose attracts – a sense of shared purpose draws people together.
- Purpose motivates – when the lizard brain tells us to run away, purpose calls us back to the work.
Today I’m launching a new project. Over the next twelve months I am going to partner with six organizations that are trying to make a difference in the world. Together we will clarify their purpose and articulate it in a way that resonates with people who care. Today marks the beginning of a great new adventure. This is your invitation to come along. It won’t be easy. In addition to the time and effort it will take just to do the work, we’ll also contend with naysayers and the lizard brain along the way. Together we can do it. If you’d like your organization to be included, email step [at] stepmorgan.com. I’d love to talk to you about what we can do to make your work more effective.
Taking the first step can feel really scary but it’s that first step that gets us moving toward a purpose fulfilled. I’m headed there now. Are you coming?
Note: The writings of Seth Godin and Donald Miller have provided much needed encouragement over the past two years. In particular, Don’s thoughts on story and a life well-lived have been very helpful. Check out his latest book A Million Miles In A Thousand Years (yep, it’s an affiliate link) or better yet, make plans to attend his upcoming seminar on living a better story. Learn more in the video below. Maybe I’ll see you there!
Living a Better Story Seminar from All Things Converge Podcast on Vimeo.