We live in an era of extraordinary change. To be a leader who makes a difference in it you need first to have a clear mission that matters.  Your mission may be based on a dream or vision of how you see the future.  It may be small and personal or large and world shaking.  It may take a few hours a week to accomplish or your whole life.  Whatever the scale, your mission is at the very heart of your leadership effectiveness. It will definitely be the driving force that attracts followers.

The important thing, about missions that make a difference, is that they usually start out as something you'd naturally do because you want to help, change or improve something.  You don't usually wake up one morning and say " I'm going to be a leader with a mission that matters".  What often happens is your mission grows out of your activities at home, at work or in the community. When you start to look for ways to make a difference nothing is off limits or out of reach.  Don't feel restricted by your age, ethnicity, or social, economic or educational status. Your commitment becomes an example that inspires and motivates others.

You have to want to make a difference

There are three major roadblocks to building your mission that matters:

• The first is thinking you're to old or to young or to anything to have a Mission.
• The second, is putting off beginning, waiting for a better time.
• The third is giving in to the temptation to do nothing, because you think you can do so little.

Missions often have modest beginnings, so don't hesitate to start small. As your mission grows you'll grow with it.  To become a mission-driven leader you don't have to be a statesman, celebrity, or business giant, or have a lofty position, numerous degrees or huge bank accounts.  Your desire to make a difference is what matters, even your smallest effort counts.

Taking the first step is often the hardest part of any endeavor.  To help you begin, look around for inspiration and direction.  When you have begun to clarify what you'd like to make a difference about you can begin to build your mission.

Business leaders examples:

The corporate mission statements of the world's best-run companies often reflect the personal missions of their leaders.  These missions are the driving force behind their profits, productivity and success.  Profits and missions are not mutually exclusive In fact, successful organizations, with clear-cut clearly defined mission statements, usually benefit both employees and customers while adhering to a high sense of ethics and social responsibility.  These companies and organizations seem to have a spirit and staying power that others do not.

The magic of a mission

We may not always be able to define a leader's mission, but we recognize leaders who have missions. Their commitment to their mission is that intangible called, charisma.  We are drawn to them and their energy. We solicit their opinions, and follow their lead.  They help us redefine our lives, our purpose and perhaps our own missions.

If you think that you lack brilliant speaking skills or personal magnetism, don't worry. Your mission doesn't depend on it.  But it is interesting to see how some people's missions have transformed them into charismatic leaders because of the depth and passion of their desire to make a difference.  Your enthusiasm can make you eloquent. 

The example that you set can speak more forcefully than words.  A mission that matters is part practical and part magical.  The practical part is the results it achieves.  The magical part is what the mission does to your mind and heart.

Leaders without missions

Can someone be leader with out having a mission?  Can you make a difference without a mission?  Possibly, but true leadership qualities are developed and sustained by having a mission.  Some leaders identify a lifetime mission.  Others have different missions at different stages of their lives.  It isn't wrong not at a mission that matters, but without one you cannot reach your full potential as a leader.  Your mission is your driving force.  

Big things come from small beginnings. The mighty oak tree comes from the tiny acorn and a tiny seed of wanting to serve others can help you make a difference.  Your mission that matters can be a driving force that inspires others to follow.  Your example of service will be your legacy of leadership.