Connecting to Goals in Every Space
Do people understand how they contribute to the overall goals of the organization?
When people truly grasp how their work, learning, or efforts connect to larger goals, something magical happens. They feel a sense of purpose.
Purpose is one of The Eight Pillars of Happiness, and it’s not just about grand ambitions or lofty goals. It’s about understanding how every little piece of the puzzle fits together. It’s not always about having a big, spiritual calling. Instead, it’s about finding meaning in the everyday actions and interactions.
In my work, I define purpose as finding and pursuing meaningful goals and directions in life. This can be seen in the smallest of behaviors, like a kind word to a colleague, or in the grandest of dreams, such as my mission with Project More Happy. Every step, big or small, contributes to a larger vision, making every action count towards a meaningful goal.
Why does this matter?
Understanding how our efforts fit into the bigger picture is key to thriving. Research shows that when people see how their work, learning, or community involvement connects to larger goals, they’re more engaged, motivated and resilient.
For instance, employees who find their work meaningful are more productive and satisfied (Steger, 2012). In education, students who grasp the purpose behind their studies tend to perform better academically (Fredricks, Blumenfeld, & Paris, 2004). And in community settings, a clear sense of how one’s contributions matter strengthens connections and boosts collective well-being (Pew Research Center, 2020).
Linking daily actions to a larger purpose enhances personal satisfaction and drives positive outcomes across all areas of life.
Every layer of purpose connects to create a meaningful and impactful journey.
The Power of Purpose at Work
In the workplace, understanding how one's role contributes to organizational goals can transform productivity and job satisfaction. Employees who see their efforts as impactful are more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
Do employees understand how they contribute to the overall goals of the organization?
According to a Gallup study, organizations with high employee engagement see 21% higher profitability and 17% higher productivity (Gallup, 2021). When employees understand and align with the company's mission, they’re not just doing a job—they’re part of a purpose-driven team.
Purpose in the Classroom
In education, purpose drives academic achievement and fosters a deeper connection to learning. When students understand how their education connects to their future goals and broader societal needs, their engagement and performance improve.
Do students understand how they contribute to the overall goals of their education?
Research from Educational Psychologist shows that students who feel their learning is meaningful are more likely to excel academically and persist through challenges (Schunk & Zimmerman, 2007). Teachers who help students see the relevance of their studies to real-world goals create more dynamic and motivated learners.
Purpose in Community Building
Communities thrive when members understand how their contributions make a difference. When people feel their efforts contribute to the community’s goals, they’re more likely to stay involved and engaged. The Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology highlights that community members who perceive their actions as meaningful contribute more effectively to community initiatives and show higher levels of satisfaction and commitment (Haslam et al., 2014).
Do community members understand how they contribute to the overall goals of the community itself?
Understanding purpose boosts engagement, performance and involvement across all areas of life.
Creating a Culture of Purpose
To boost productivity, foster collaboration and create a deeper sense of meaning and pride, it’s crucial for individuals to feel connected to larger goals. Whether in the workplace, classroom or community, understanding one's contribution to overarching objectives makes a big difference.
How can we foster a deeper understanding of an individual's contributions to the overall goals of the organization, school, or community to which they are a part?
Communicate the bigger picture. Regularly share how individual roles and efforts contribute to the organization's or community’s goals. Transparency helps everyone see their impact.
Set clear, meaningful goals. Ensure that objectives are not only clear but also meaningful. Connect everyday tasks to larger goals to reinforce their significance.
Celebrate contributions. Acknowledge and celebrate when individuals make strides toward larger goals. Recognition helps reinforce the connection between personal efforts and overall success.
Understanding how each of us contributes to the larger goals is a catalyst for genuine fulfillment and collective success. By ensuring that everyone sees the impact of their actions, we not only enhance individual satisfaction but also strengthen the fabric of our teams, classrooms and communities. When every action, no matter how small, is aligned with a meaningful purpose, we create an environment where people thrive, connections deepen and goals are achieved together.
Purpose creates a positive cycle of enhanced engagement, increased productivity, higher satisfaction and stronger community bonds.
Commit to making purpose clear and accessible. By fostering an environment where everyone understands and values their contribution, we set the stage for greater achievement and deeper satisfaction in every aspect of life.
