By James L. Castellano

A common factor of many successful businesses is their mission statement. Mission Statement.com defines these as follows:

A mission statement defines in a paragraph or so any entity's reason for existence. It embodies its philosophies, goals, and ambitions.

These statements define what a company stands for. It is a public display of their DNA. If these work for businesses, why can't they work for individuals?

As a VALID leader, your personal mission statement defines who you are as a person. What can be more important than an accurate and meaningful definition of our self? A properly crafted statement will be your foundation for success.

When the storm is over, there's nothing left of the wicked; good people, firm on their rock foundation, aren't even fazed. (Proverbs 10:25, MSG)

Perfecting your statement will take time. Similar to affirmations, this must be written in the present tense and include attitudes and characteristics you aspire to display. It should force you out of your comfort zone.

Once you've created your statement, write it in your planner each morning. This etches it into your soul.  Also, display it publically. This will force you to own up to the conditions you set for yourself. You will stumble from time to time, but this okay.  Nobody is perfect.

My actual statement is as follows:

My life purpose is to help restore others to fulfill their purpose using God as the foundation. I focus on who I am and display the highest level of morals, values, honesty, and integrity at all times.

I envision my statement in the shape of a pyramid. Pyramids have a strong foundation and will stand up to any storm.

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." (Matthew 7:27, NIV)

Each corner of the pyramid is labeled with-my morals, my values, my ethics, and my integrity. Then holding it all together is God who sits on the peak.

Do you already have personal mission statement? If so, when was the last time it was updated?

James authors the popular leadership blog, Leading The Way. You can participate in the daily discussions by visiting www.leadingisreading.blogspot.com.