Are You Purpose or Project Focused?

Over the course of my 45 years as an entrepreneur, I’ve been incredibly blessed to work with, learn from, and mentor some of the best individuals and teams in the world. Along the way, I’ve been obsessed with identifying the common characteristics that make these high performers stand out.

One trait consistently rises to the top:

They Are Purpose-Driven

Every single one of them is grounded in a purpose that’s bigger than themselves. They’re clear on the impact they want to have in the world, and that vision drives them every single day—not just in business, but in life.

There’s no shortage of great thinkers who have emphasized this same principle. Here are just a few who’ve shaped my thinking:

• Dan Sullivan, founder of Strategic Coach, teaches the 25-Year Framework:

  • A future-focused approach that helps individuals transform not only their own lives but the lives of others around them.

• Peter Diamandis, founder of PHD Ventures, promotes having a Massively Transformative Purpose (MTP):

  • A purpose so compelling, it’s what you think about while you eat, shower, and fall asleep.

• Bo Eason, former NFL safety, author, and speaker, encourages a 20-Year Declaration:

  • A bold commitment to becoming the best in the world at what you do—and owning the impact that can create.

• Napoleon Hill, in The Law of Success in 16 Lessons, begins with “A Definite Chief Aim”:

  • “To fix your heart and hand upon some definite, well-conceived purpose as a life- work.”

What These Have in Common

Each of these frameworks is future-focused and driven by impact. None of them are tactical. They’re about having a clear internal vision—a compass that guides your decisions and ignites lasting motivation.

This isn’t just business advice. It’s a way of life.

A Personal Story: The 22-Year Vision

In 2017, I attended my 40-year high school reunion. Most of my classmates were talking about retirement—how great it would be to finally relax and leave the pressure of their careers behind.

Meanwhile, I had just completed a 22-Year Bigger Future Vision (BFV) for myself.

When someone asked me when I planned to retire, I said:

Naturally, they asked, “Why 22 years?”

My answer: “I’m 58 now. That takes me to 80. And when I get closer to 80, I’ll create or adjust from there.”

It might sound crazy to some, but to me, our BFV isn’t just a plan—it’s our purpose. It’s not a job. It’s what gives every day meaning.

The Power of a Long-Term Vision

Having a clear long-term vision isn’t just inspiring—it’s practical. It becomes a filter for decision-making. At ELEVATION180, our BFV helps us assess opportunities, simplify complexity, and stay aligned as we grow our organization.

I’ve discovered something powerful along the way:

When you are clear about your long-term, purpose-driven vision, the universe supports it. Opportunities start to show up. They were always there—but now you can see them.

Our Purpose at ELEVATION180

We have our purpose posted front and center in our office as a constant reminder of why we do what we do:

This is what keeps us focused. Grounded. Driven.

So, What About You?

Are you project-focused or purpose-driven?

Have you taken the time to define your Bigger Future Vision?

If not—start today. The clarity it brings will transform your life, your business, and your impact.

Ready to lead with purpose, not just projects? Start with a clear vision—and watch how it transforms your decisions, your culture, and your future.

Through our ELEVATE180 programs, your future becomes predictable. Transform your future by understanding yourself and your team in order to maximize your energy, capacity, and capability. If you’re ready to reach your fullest potential and unlock your Bigger Future, reach out to us. We’d love to schedule a call to explore how we can help you avoid burnout and elevate your success.

ELEVATION180 is a transformational coaching and mentoring organization that elevates your performance to achieve freedom, lifelong sustainable results, and a bigger future. Discover more by visiting www.ELEVATION180.com.

For insurance sales producers and agencies our GROWTH180 programs help you to transform your future by growing their book of business year after year.

For businesses, teams, and leaders, our ELEVATE180 programs help you transform your future by understanding yourself and your team to maximize energy, capacity, and capability.