Values

Prioritites

Impact

Personal Mission Statement

Writing a personal mission statement can help you clarify your professional interests and direct
your search. A personal mission statement can ensure that you are applying for internships or
jobs that are true to your purpose and values, and help you avoid doing work you are not
committed to. Expect that this process will take time, and that you can add to or edit your
statement at anytime.

1. Define your values: the principles guiding your decision-making, informing your worldview,
and making your passion. Values help motivate and guide us. They enable us to live our
purpose.

Prioritize and List 5 to 10 of your most important values:

a. f.
b. g.
c. h.
d. i.
e. j.

2. Define your priorities: clarify where your professional and personal goals lie. Where do you
want to direct your energy, time, resources, etc.? Generally the priorities you list should be
broad.

Prioritize and List 5 to 10 of your most important priorities:

a. f.
b. g.
c. h.
d. i.
e. j.

Revised from idealist.org Guide for Nonprofit Careers

3. Define how you want to make impact: what kind of personal and professional difference do
you want to make? Where do you want to create change, influence decision-making, foster
development, etc.

Prioritize and List 5 to 10 ways you want to make impact:

a. f.
b. g.
c. h.
d. i.
e. j.

4. Not it’s time to craft your mission statement. It should be a strong reflection of what you are
passionate about, and who you are. Your mission should incorporate both what you do/want to
do and the qualities you want to develop. Every piece of the mission you should feel passionate
about.

Begin your mission statement incorporating your values, priorities, and impact from above
along with any reflections on who you are/want to be:

Revised from idealist.org Guide for Nonprofit Careers