Question of the Week
Last week, a client asked me to reschedule an upcoming meeting. This client’s office would be closed for a full week so that partners and employees could participate in advocacy at a critical time. People were encouraged to head out to protests, take time for self-care, or do anything else they feel called to do. “The moment calls us into the streets and to slow down, simultaneously,” one of the partners shared. This decision is very much aligned with the overall values of their business and what they created the business to do.
I felt joy and excitement rush from my feet to the top of my head. This is why I chose to focus on serving mission-driven businesses. I believe that if we all can harness and focus on our individual talents, as a collective, we can create the change that we want to see. And, by the way, this business generates significant profit. They are proof that companies can combine positive social change and financial success.
Right now, it feels like we’re at a significant inflection point. And yes, we have been here before. But I’m seeing awareness and acceptance that can create meaningful action. I’m hearing from people who want to serve a higher purpose through entrepreneurship. If you feel like you’re being called to create or run a mission-driven business here are four fundamental elements to consider.
Quote of the week
“Just as people cannot live without eating, so a business cannot live without profits. But most people don’t live to eat, and neither must businesses live just to make profits.” – John Mackey, Whole Foods
Task of the Week
Take some time this weekend to think about your purpose or your “why.” Thinking about and writing down your answers to the Three Kinder Questions may help you reframe how your business can serve you and others you hope to impact.