As the founder of an investment company, profits obviously matter a great deal. That said, profit without purpose is hollow, at best. Unless we understand why our work matters, and ensure that it brings tangible value to others, even profitable ventures are hollow. Stated differently, working purely for money without being “on mission” leads to futility.
Staying on mission looks different for everyone, but it’s usually centered around solving a real-world problem for our clients, and those solutions leave them better off for having met us.
That’s why Icelaven only invests in companies that reflect our core values, capitalize on our strengths, and improve the lives of others. One example is our charter schools. In a one-size-fits-all public school system, we often meet families who believe they’re at the end of their rope. They’ve concluded that no one understands their child’s struggles, and have no idea how to equip them to flourish in school and life.
By providing personalized support that embraces each student’s learning differences, and providing a clear path to academic success, families gain a renewed sense of hope when they attend our schools. That’s the kind of work that makes Icelaven a mission-driven company, inspiring us to approach each day with innovation, zeal, and hard work.
If you sense that your work lacks purpose, I’d encourage you to learn how you’re uniquely gifted to solve problems for others and how they’re lives will be better as a result. This will bring a sense of gratitude and fulfillment, with the assurance that your work makes a tangible difference in someone’s life, which is a worthy mission, whatever your craft!