As human beings, we are often driven by a sense of purpose or a set of principles that guide our actions and decisions. Purpose and principles are not the same, but one is not better than the other. We often hear about these paths applied to business leadership, but by examining them in that context, we can figure out which, if either, is a practical way to progress in our own lives. Interestingly, you can flip back and forth as the seasons — or even just the weather — of your life change.
The Purpose-driven Approach
The purpose-driven approach is characterized by a singular focus on achieving a specific goal or mission. This approach is often associated with companies that have a clear and compelling vision, such as Tesla or Patagonia. The benefits of a purpose-driven approach are that it can inspire employees, attract customers, and create a sense of meaning and purpose. However, a limitation of this approach is that it can sometimes lead to a myopic focus on the end goal, which can cause companies to overlook ethical considerations or long-term sustainability.
I’ve been purpose-driven since the beginning of the year. I have been wanting to finish a book for about six years, and that’s too long to want to finish something. This year, instead of setting six goals in six different areas, I set One Big Goal, to get that book published in 2023. I broke it down into my first quarter goal, then into January tasks. I didn’t bother with the other quarters or even the other months in the first quarter until I saw how January went. This has worked exceptionally well for me, and now, in May, I’m bringing in the last of the recent research, and I have plans for what to do when that’s done. By the end of May, I’ll be ready for the step that comes after “write the book.”
The downside of being so focused is that none of my other goals is getting attention. I had to find a way to be okay with that. I found it in the realization that I didn’t do well at those other goals when I had six goals and small objectives on each one. Maybe when I get this out of the way, I can either set one other big goal, or I may go back to six smaller goals. Or I may take a different approach altogether, because I get to choose.
The Principle-driven Approach
On the other hand, the principle-driven approach is characterized by a commitment to a set of values or beliefs that guide decision-making. Companies that follow this approach prioritize ethical considerations and social responsibility, such as Ben & Jerry’s or The Body Shop. The benefits of a principle-driven approach are that it can foster a culture of integrity and trust, build long-term customer loyalty, and create a positive impact on society. However, a limitation of this approach is that it can sometimes be rigid or inflexible, which can limit innovation or adaptability.
In most areas of my life, I apply a principle-driven approach. You probably do, too. You have some lines you won’t cross, some hills you’d be willing to die on. My principles are mostly derived from my religious beliefs. I believe in giving my employer my very best, because that’s what I agreed to. Some days my very best is exemplified in getting a lot of little things accomplished, some days it means that I spend a lot of time on one thing, and some days it means I’m focused on learning something that lets me do my job better, but every day it means my company gets my best effort at whatever the tasks are.
How Do I Choose?
Despite their differences, purpose-driven and principle-driven approaches share some similarities. Both approaches focus on values and beliefs that guide decision-making, prioritize ethics and social responsibility, and aim to create long-term impact. However, the key difference between the two approaches lies in their focus. While the purpose-driven approach is focused on achieving a specific goal, the principle-driven approach is focused on adhering to a set of values.
So which approach is right for you? The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as current season of life, family culture, the expectations others have for you, and the goals you and your primary group have. It’s important to choose an approach that aligns with your and your family’s values and goals, and that takes into account the needs of your “stakeholders” (all the different people who are impacted by what you do), including family, employer or customers if you’re a business owner, and society as a whole.
Whether you are driven by a sense of purpose or a set of principles at this point in your life, the key is to approach your decisions with integrity and a commitment to ethical considerations and personal responsibility. By doing so, you can create a positive impact on everyone around you, build a strong personal reputation, and achieve long-term success.