Higher purpose: An impact statement can help individuals contribute to a better world. - 123rf.com
One of the key differentiating features between humans and animals is that the latter is driven by reflex and instinct when it comes to behaviour.
Humans, on the other hand, are much more sophisticated and individualistic. We have huge potential for learning, creation and impact.
While we have basic instincts to help us survive, avoid pain and seek pleasure, these do not drive conduct; nor do they explain human behaviour.
Another differentiator is that humans are aware of their mortality. Without something deeper and more meaningful on a personal level to make life worth living, we experience boredom and hopelessness, and our well-being may suffer.
In the absence of a true purpose, we seek – consciously or unconsciously – alternative sources of meaning to fill the void.
We have witnessed political leaders inspiring the masses to support their less than ideal actions.
Their supporters’ conviction and willingness to sacrifice for a false cause is evidence that they believe in, and even draw a sense of meaning from, it.
There are two types of purpose: true purpose, which is innately good, emanates from within, and has a positive impact on the world; and false purpose, which is usually manipulated, is often driven by external factors such as fads and peer pressure, and does not have a positive impact on the world.
The former requires intentional work and discipline to discover and mobilise, while the latter can exist without much effort.
The challenges of the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) world we live in require us to be the best versions of ourselves.
If we are to emerge triumphant, we must be independent, critical thinkers, creative, kind, authentic, and accepting of one another.
Thus, our driving force must be a true purpose, lest a false one fills the void. Having a clearly articulated sense of true purpose is increasingly becoming a requirement to live, lead and be successful.
We are all unique. Our uniqueness stems from the fact that we are all different in our genetic make-up, life experiences and mindsets.
This diversity needs to be harnessed and leveraged to create value and address the challenges we face.
By preparing an impact statement which is designed to elucidate this diversity, individuals will be able to articulate their sense of purpose and how they plan to make a positive impact on the world.
An impact statement, which Heriot-Watt University requires its staff and students to prepare, is usually anchored in the individual’s strengths, values, and sense of meaning.
I have facilitated impact statement discovery sessions for thousands of students and corporate personalities, from as young as 14 to as old as 65.
I am often asked: Am I too young (or old) for this exercise? Will articulating a well-defined purpose prevent me from exploring other things in life?
Should my purpose be heroic or larger than life?
Will my purpose change as I go through life?
Can my purpose be framed in an aspirational way? Will I one day discover my true purpose spontaneously or is intentional work necessary?
It is never too early or too late to start discovering and articulating your true purpose. Now more than ever, this is becoming a necessity.
True purpose – which can be as ambitious or as simple as you wish – is an enabler, not a limiter. Formulating and declaring your purpose will send a signal to those of similar interest to join, and collaborate with, you.
While true purpose has a stability to it, the way you articulate your purpose will evolve over time as your self-knowledge improves. An aspirational true purpose can encourage us to live up to its higher standards.
It is necessary to intentionally work on discovering, and committing to paper, your true purpose. A structured impact statement workshop, under the tutelage of an experienced impact coach, is a very effective way to achieve that.
In the age of artificial intelligence, rising populism, climate emergency, and growing inequality, parents, educators and leaders must recognise the importance of developing purpose-driven individuals and communities, if we are to create a sustainable, equitable and enjoyable world for all.
PROF MUSHTAK AL-ATABI
Provost and chief executive officer
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia;
Chairman Vice Chancellors’ Council for Private Universities
