What matters to you
"Tapping into your desire to give is the key to unlocking your own sense of purpose and to releasing your talents...to finding the work you love." -Laurence Boldt
As you answer these questions, keep in mind experiences you have had in the past when you have enthusiastically supported a cause or simply enjoyed helping out in some way.
1. What issues do you feel strongly about? When have you taken a stand about something? What was it?
2. In what circumstances do you naturally, repeatedly, and joyfully share your talents with others?
3. What do you consider the greatest accomplishment of your life? Why?
4. List three of your most favorite movies.
List three of your most favorite books.
Why do you love them? What themes or values do they emphasize?
5. What do you value? What are the things that are most important in your life?
6. What do you think needs to be done in the world?
7. What compels you to take action or voice your point of view?
8. In what area do you want to make a difference?
9. If you had the opportunity to make a change in the world, what would it be?
10. What kind of legacy do you wish to leave?
11. List all of the service experiences you have had in the past. Circle the experiences that gave you the most joy and satisfaction. What were you
doing?
Taking in consideration your values and what matters to you, create a statement of purpose. Include
- who you serve,
- where you serve and
- for what reason.
For example, "I want to help young children in third world countries have better educational opportunities" or "I want to educate the general public about environmental issues." As you progress through these exercises, you will have the opportunity to revise this statement.