Finding Purpose

“The most important step of all is the first step. Start Something.” – Blake Mycoskie

Earlier this year, I picked up the book, Start Something that Matters. In it, Blake Mycoskie shares his journey to start TOMS® Shoes and his commitment to a different way of doing business.

At the same time I started the book, I was researching brand story-telling and brand purpose looking at the key characteristics of engaging brand story-tellers.

As I got further into the book, I noticed a common thread among purposeful companies and successful brand story-telling: content that supported a purpose greater than profit alone. I was discovering a wave of companies transforming their business models by equally valuing profit and purpose. Theses companies had rich, authentic stories and strong customer engagement.

They thrived because their employees were motivated to not only do good work but also to change the world. I read about B Corporations and Benefits Companies that were committed to doing the right thing by all stakeholders equally. Organizations pledging to do know harm to the environment.

I started following impactful leaders and social enterprises that are changing how we care for each other and our planet. Then, I began looking at the business case for the purpose-led business model. There’s a rising tide that will only grow as people crave, build and reward purposeful businesses.

In his book, Blake encourages readers saying, “The most important step of all is the first step. Start Something.” So I’m starting a conversation.

I hope you will join me each week as I share articles, trends, research and thoughts that build upon this rising tide and illustrate the success that occurs when companies commit to a purpose greater than profit.