Now that you have identified and articulated your mission, let’s look at what may impact its success. There are six areas of influence that we all experience as we move forward in our life’s mission. They are Spiritual, Mental, Emotional, Physical, Social, and Environmental. 

Today we’ll explore the spiritual influence.  This defines your purpose, beliefs, values, gifts, desires, and goals.  It is not to be confused with a religious intent; spiritual influences can be informed by one’s formal religion, but they can also be separate. 

Being aware of your spiritual influencers can indicate how engaged you are in carrying out your real life purpose. One question to consider is: If you have a contribution to make and have people remember you for that, what might that be? How is it manifested in your daily life?

Your values may or may not lead you in that great contribution.  Are you living in real alignment with things that are important to you?  For example, if I believe that my mission is to create positive change for everyone in my sphere of influence, what values are reflected in my everyday life? Clearly accomplishment would be one, perhaps adventure or taking on new tasks—what about flexibility—do I look for structure or am I more comfortable “doing my own thing?” Is recognition important to me, or can I lead without being in the limelight?  When you make choices throughout the day, are you truly honoring your values? Take some time and write down what values are really important to you every day. 

Another part of spiritual influence is the fulfillment of desires.  What gets you up in the morning? Is it money, fame, power, love, peace? Has that changed over time—where are you now? Does your job fulfill your desire; does your family life answer your longings? Tough questions, but important to consider as you think about your goals and how your spiritual influences are in alignment with your mission and how it is implemented. 

So, now what?  Being aware of what is at the core of your spirit is so important!  How can you more fully express your values as a leader—whether it is at work, at home, or within your community?  How do your beliefs and values drive your desires and enable you to make that life contribution for which you will be remembered? 

It is so easy to be on autopilot and not take time to really think about what makes you special and what makes your life count in real ways.  That is powerful stuff.