A Mission Statement:

>Many authors encourage their readers to write "a mission statement." The purpose of this project is to keep us focused and on track. The statement should be typed or printed attractively and be read every day. The reason for going through all this trouble is this: The world carries us forward like a mighty river with full force. It is so demanding, it takes every bit of energy we can muster just to stay afloat, just to cope with daily demands. The mission statement is like a tiny island in the midst of this fast-flowing river on which we can land for just a few moments every day to remind ourselves of the vast ocean at the end of the river (4:17)

"Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes once boarded a train in Washington, then promptly lost his ticket. The conductor recognized him and said, 'Never mind, Mr. Justice. When you find your ticket, I am certain you will mail it in.' 'Mr. Conductor,' replied Holmes, 'the question is not where is my ticket, but where am I supposed to be going?'" (4:18)

According to author Stephen Covey, a mission statement accomplishes these purposes: (4:19)

It presents you with a circle of significance, a clear lens through which you can see the world (4:20)

It serves as a personal constitution, as a standard by which you measure everything else in your life, as an expression of your vision and values (4:21)

It gives you a sense of clarity, commitment, and freedom (4:22)

It "forces you to think through your priorities deeply, carefully, and to align your behavior with your beliefs. Other people begin to sense that you're not being driven by everything that happens to you. You have a sense of mission about what you're trying to do and you are excited about it." (20) (4:23)

It is never too late to learn and to start a new life.

Student: "I want to become a doctor."
Counselor: "Why don't you?"
Student: "It takes seven years. I will be an old man."
Counselor: "How old will you be in seven years if you don't go to school?" (4:24)

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