I exist to…
One sentence, 20 words or fewer, that says why you’re here. Write it before anything else in this lab.
Grab a pen and paper. This one isn’t typed: writing by hand slows you down, so you weigh every word.
How to write it
- Start with “I exist to”.Those three words come first, every time.
- Aim high.Think past your job title. Picture the highest version of what your life can do for other people, and write toward that.
- Choose every word on purpose.Trade ordinary words for strong ones. A strong verb carries the whole sentence.
- Keep it to 20 words or fewer.Count them. Cut every word that doesn’t earn its place.
- Read it out loud.If it doesn’t stir something in you, write it again. Three or four drafts is normal.
- Keep it where you’ll see it.Your phone’s lock screen, your mirror, or the first page of your notebook.
Trade ordinary words for strong ones
| Instead of | Try |
|---|---|
| help | ignite, elevate, equip, champion |
| make | build, forge, craft |
| change | transform, reshape, renew |
| connect | unite, rally, bridge |
| give | provide, unleash, pour into |
| fix | restore, rebuild, heal |
| start | launch, spark, pioneer |
| show | reveal, illuminate |
From ordinary to strong
I exist to help people with their money.Ordinary: true, but it could describe anyone.
I exist to free families from money fear so they can chase the dreams they set aside.Strong: 17 words, a clear picture, and verbs with weight.
More examples
I exist to ignite courage in people who were told to play small.13 words
I exist to equip the next generation of builders to turn small beginnings into lasting legacies.16 words
I exist to restore dignity to work by opening doors where others see dead ends.15 words
Wrote yours? Check this step off, then read your sentence out loud every morning this week.