Purpose

Clear ambitions

Everyone has hopes and dreams, but vague aspirations are of little help. We have to shape them into clear ambitions — the sort of things that will serve as handrails, keeping us upright and on course.

If we spend enough time thinking things through, we’ll become clear about what we want, exactly, and why. We’ll then be able to summon up an understanding of what matters when we need it the most, which is when we’re in an uncomfortable situation, pressed to make choices but hurried and harried.

Clear ambitions shape our sense of value into handrails that keep us upright and on course.

First shape ambitions

The first step in building a clear sense of purpose is to look at where we see the most value, and the most potential for value.

We can note how we respond emotionally to things. What do we love? What disgusts us? What would we like to see more of? Or less of? What, specifically, would we most like to happen?

The clearer we are the better. What makes this future different from other eventualities? How would we know if we’ve succeeded? What is the finishing line we’d like to cross? When would we like to cross it?

Now capture those ambitions

Once we’re clear about what we’re aiming for, we can write it down. We can tell people about it. Sometimes writing a poem or making a sketch can help.

Giving our ambitions names makes it easier to bring them to mind when we need them.

Finally, clarify the stakes

We heighten our sense of purpose by clarifying what’s at stake.

Technically, the stakes are the difference in value between the most desirable and least desirable of possible outcomes. How, then, would realising the ambition make the world a better place? What might happen if we fail? If we don’t even try? What tragedies and losses might come to pass?

A clear sense of what’s at stake can propel us through difficulties and dangers. It can lift us up and keep us going. It can put a fire in our bellies and put a charge in all we do.