The Statement of Purpose

I'm often asked, "What's the difference between a mission statement and a statement of purpose?"

The difference is mostly semantical. Regardless of what you call it, it should spell out your reason for being in practice. Consider what Henry Ford articulated over a century ago:

“I will build a car for the great multitude. It will be large enough for the family, but small enough for the individual to run and care for. It will be constructed of the best materials, by the best men to be hired, after the simplest designs that modern engineering can devise. But it will be so low in price that no man making a good salary will be unable to own one and enjoy with his family the blessings of hours of pleasure in God’s great open spaces.”

So while he made automobiles, his purpose was to improve family time. Huge distinction!

Closer to home, a chiropractic statement of purpose might read something like this:

“We provide gentle, intuitive and scientific correction of the Vertebral Subluxation Complex for health-conscious individuals and families. Quality education and adjustments will support our patients in reaching their health goals and result in greater public awareness of chiropractic. As we serve more people we will realize the financial rewards and personal satisfaction in creating a healthier community.”

So while they provide "gentle, intuitive and scientific correction," their purpose is to create a healthier community — something worth getting out of bed for!

If you find yourself merely paying the bills, or worse, brushing up against burnout or questioning your career choice, you've lost your purpose. Together, let's rediscover it!

Being On Purpose
One Hour Mini-Seminar
Indicate CD or audiocassette
US $45 CD/$25 cassette