I’ve a passion for developing and leading purpose-driven cultures. Recently, I read Lisa Earle McLeod’s book Leading with Noble Purpose. She makes an argument that we need to look beyond numbers. Instead, she emphasizes how to embrace a purpose and tell a meaningful story that connects and motivates.
She asserts, “Profit doesn’t drive purpose. Purpose drives profit. We made some incorrect assumptions about work and those assumptions are killing us. We allowed a narrative that is solely about earnings to replace what we know to be true about human motivation. Human beings are hardwired to seek purpose, but according to data, most people don’t feel a sense of purpose in their work. Work has become a grind, an endless series of tasks that lack meaning.”
If you’re looking for a resource to help you develop a more purpose-driven culture, her book offers leaders an implementation guide. You can use its contents to consider and claim a noble purpose, to develop a meaningful narrative, to launch it in your organization, and to align your operations to support it.
I recommend adding her book to your library. I believe when we lead with purpose, we provide opportunities for meaningful work, gain higher performance and satisfy our customers.