Page 8 - 2025-01 Voices

The Importance of Alignment

A key element of growing purpose is alignment. You will most engage in your work when the
mission and goals of the organization also matter to you, especially when you feel like you can
contribute to the bigger picture. You want to build a castle, not just lay bricks.

Serving currently as District Alignment Chair, my Alignment Committee and I contribute to district
leaders’ strategic plan paving the way for them to reach their District Mission for 2025-2026. We
believe that District leaders who can develop strong purpose and help their members see how they
can contribute to it, will reap the benefits in terms of members who provide discretionary efforts and
wake up energized for their days.

Meaningful Actions

In growing purpose, there are 4 key actions that matter most:

1. Clarity purpose.
As an individual or as an organization, it is essential that you define your purpose with as much
detail and clarity as possible, identifying what differentiates your purpose and what makes your
contribution to it unique.

2. Articulate purpose.
Whether you are an individual or an organization, write down your purpose and revisit it regularly to
keep it fresh. Organization should communicate your purpose broadly and regularly, reminding the
people why the organization exists and what it seeks to accomplish so people have a line of sight
from their contribution to the importance of the organization’s mission.

3. Choose well.
Actively use purpose for choice making. No choice is ideal, but as individuals, you can choose a
task, a volunteer effort, or a project which is as close as possible to what matters most to you. You
can remind yourself of how even small, everyday tasks lead up to something bigger than yourself.
Organizations can use purpose to define strategic choices, which direction to go and how to win
(achieve Distinguished Club Program goals).

4. Stay nimble.
Monitor, measure, and reassess regularly. Circumstances and contexts will
change. Both individuals and organizations will need to adapt and be resilient.

In conclusion, growing purpose does not have to be rocket science. Keep the bigger picture in
mind and ensure actions are in alignment with what matters most to you. As many people say
“We are the choices we make.” Purpose should drive all these choices and actions. You will be
most fulfilled when your choices and actions are aligned with a clear purpose.

8 Voices!