Playing with Purpose

I am surprised and appreciative of all the comments I received on my last blog. I asked the question on Linked in who would give up millions to pursue their dream and happiness as Grant Desme seems to have done. I am impressed with the testimonials of those who have left lucrative financial careers to start their own businesses, work for non-profits, or start your own non-profit.


It turns out this is the perfect lead in to this week's blog. We all know about Hurricane Katrina and the devastation in New Orleans and much of the gulf coast that still exists today. It came through New Orleans in August, 2005 and made the convention center and Super Dome shelters of the last resort. Over 1,800 died, most from Louisiana, and the economic loss was nearly $90 billion. Through the umpteen hours of Super Bowl coverage, we know that the Saints renaissance began in 2006 with the arrival of head coach Sean Payton, quarterback Drew Brees and running back Reggie Bush. In one of the most memorable Monday night football games I have ever seen, the Saints come back to the Super Dome September 25, 2006 and win big against the Falcons.

The question is - why do the Saints matter and how does it relate to giving up millions to follow your dream? It's my belief that many of the Saints played the Super Bowl for the city of New Orleans rather than themselves. Perhaps I'm naive, but there is no doubt in my mind that Drew Brees will remain in New Orleans the remainder of his career. He has been extremely active in the New Orleans community along with his wife Brittany. They have become part of the fabric of their community. He, along with many of his teammates, felt they could finally lift their city out of the shadow of Katrina with a Super Bowl win. I believe they have.

How does this relate to your organization? Perhaps it doesn't. If that's the case, go back to your organization's mission and determine whether it's meaningful. It tells me that there is no mission link and your teams are there for the paycheck and personal gain. This may work in the short run, but your best and brightest will leave for a better paycheck and the promise of further personal gain. Everyone needs a purpose to exist. Those who don't become victims. As we enjoy President's Day, think about your purpose, your organization's mission, and how you can link these for organization. Think of the commitment you'll achieve at all levels.