How to Make a Mission Statement You’ll Actually Care About

Guest article from Riley Smith, Founder of MakeGood Creative Network

Every entrepreneur knows they need a Mission Statement. Most companies make one, put it away in a Google drive, and never look at it again.

What if you could create a Mission Statement that inspired you, connected and empowered your team, and communicated your business clearly to your customers?

It turns out, you can do this! In three sort-of-simple steps, you’ll have an inspiring mission statement for your company or personal brand. Let’s walk through the steps and create one together.

Why You Need a Better Mission Statement

A mission statement should be just that: a simple statement of your mission, AKA what you want to accomplish.

Think of a secret agent mission. James Bond wants to infiltrate a secret hideaway and arrest the evildoer, thus saving the world. Easily said, and more easily done because he’s clear on his goals.

Imagine if James Bond’s mission statement was to synergize ally collaboration with integrity for the betterment of mankind. The evil guy’s rocket would almost certainly take off while James Bond brainstormed about collaboration.

Your mission statement must be tied to a real problem and how you’re going to solve it, if you hope to accomplish anything in the real world.

The Better Mission Statement Formula

Here are the three steps. We’ll go into more detail in a moment, but this is the basic structure of your better mission statement.

  1. What’s the problem?
  2. How are you the solution?
  3. What will the world look like when you’ve solved the problem?

Let’s break each of these steps down so you can make your own inspiring mission!

What’s the Problem?

Think BIG. What is something that really ticks you off? A problem that’s universal for your audience, perhaps something that personally affects you.

The more epic, the better, because you’ll find it more motivating. 

For instance, my company’s big problem that we try to solve is that many indie and amateur creators don’t get the support they need, so they don’t create and they feel unfulfilled and dissatisfied with life. 

That’s a big worldwide problem that really annoys us! So it’s great motivation for our mission statement.

How Are You the Solution?

Now that you have laser-focused on the problem you want to solve, it’s time to think about what particular set of skills you have that will solve the problem.

In our case, we take knowledge from experienced creators and bring that help, support, and know-how to our audience through guides and videos.

This is the part where you identify what exactly your business does and connect it to the goal you want to accomplish. Doing that will make the day-to-day of your job feel like it’s working toward solving that big problem. 

But that’s not even the best part. That comes next…

What Will the World Look Like When You’ve Solved the Problem?

If and when you succeed, how will things change?

I say this is the best part, because this is where you paint the positive picture of the world you’re moving toward. It’s a chance to day-dream the best possible world that can happen when you accomplish your mission.

For instance, our company looks forward to a world where artists feel more valued, supported, and successful, so they bring more art into the world!

We might never change the whole entire world (it’s a pretty big place), but the fact that we can change the lives of even a few people in this way keeps us going.

Put this into the most descriptive terms you can. Be emotional about it. Write out your vision for a better world, one you are bringing into being as you work toward your mission!

Now Put It All Together

Take your three pieces and connect them in one or two sentences.

For example, MakeGood’s mission statement is:

There’s not enough support for indie and amateur creators, so we provide accessible training resources and a community of like-minded artists. With this support, creators will spend less time struggling and more time making a beautiful, art-filled world.

You can see the three parts in there that we discussed. There’s a problem, so we provide a solution, and that means the world will be a better place.

Write out your mission statement. Then put it everywhere and get to work making it happen!

What To Do With Your New Mission Statement

You can now use your mission statement to connect your own actions and your team’s actions to your larger goal. When taking on a new project or making a decision, you can ask: does this serve our mission?

You can also use this mission statement to explain what you do in a clear and inspiring way to customers and clients. By focusing on this problem-solution-outcome format, you appeal to people’s sense of story, and you do it in a way that’s straightforward and easy to understand.

Need more help getting inspired?

We have a ton of resources and guides at our website, www.makegood creative tips.com! 

Whether you want to learn a new skill, be more productive, or start a new career, we have videos, ebooks, and more to help you. 

Much of our content is free, so go check it out!

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Professional Success, Personal Satisfaction: Have Them Both

Are you happy — really, truly happy in all aspects of your life? Chances are you aren’t quite sure how to answer the question. The truth is that most of us are just pretending to be happy, especially at work and at home. Take a few minutes to evaluate your personal state. You might just find that there’s room for something new.

Changing lanes

If you don’t like the path you’re traveling, there’s nothing that says you have to keep going in that direction. Take your job, for example. It’s never too late to change careers if you feel boxed into a dead end. Even if you’ve been at your job for many years, it may not be your perfect profession. Your career should match your personality. If you’re a Helper, which the Enneagram Institute says is a personality type that is “most genuinely helpful to other people,” you might thrive as a social worker. This specific career is something you can work toward online, even if you don’t currently hold a degree in social work. Earning your master’s online means you can continue to take in an income while you learn skills that will allow you to pursue a profession that truly fits who you are.

Hello, hobbies

If you’re not quite ready to commit to a career change, picking up a hobby is a great way to add interest to your life. The Hobsess blog explains that participating in outdoor hobbies is an effective way to boost your mood. It also pulls double duty as exercise. Fishing, hiking, and other activities that let you soak up the sun can also oust anxiety and give you a chance to spend some quality time with your family.

Time for fitness

Exercise has many physical benefits, but it’s a great stress reliever as well. What many don’t realize is that you don’t have to get in all your exercise at the gym. For instance, you can take the stairs instead of the elevator at work or go for a 30-minute walk as part of your lunch hour. To keep yourself motivated, pick up a smartwatch or fitness tracker so you can monitor the extra exercise you’re getting; you may be surprised at how many additional calories you’re burning. Today’s smartwatch models have many exciting features; the latest Apple watches come with an altimeter, heart rate monitoring, and SOS options. If you’re looking to spend a little less, the Huawei Band 3 Pro can track your activity and has long battery life. 

Take care of your gut

You may be surprised at how much the state of your gut can affect your physical health and overall mood. A healthy gut can promote heart and brain health and help prevent weight gain. Your gut also produces serotonin which can affect mood levels. To keep your gut in good shape, you should avoid antibiotics (unless you absolutely need to take them) and eat food with live cultures, such as kefir and yogurt. It’s also a good idea to take a probiotic every day.  

Get involved

One of the quickest ways to get burned out on life is to shut yourself off from the rest of the world. Becoming involved with local charitable organizations is an excellent way to fill the void, and can also boost morale at work. No matter how big or small your company is, you are part of a group of people who can work together to make your community a better place. Talk to your coworkers about organizing a charity drive. Entrepreneur explains that you don’t have to make it a continual effort, and should be realistic with time and financial constraints. Start small, but try to target a cause that means something to you. You don’t have to limit your altruistic endeavors to the work day, either. Get your entire family involved. You can use your vocational skills to give back while teaching your children about social stewardship. Scholastic offers a few great suggestions on how to make giving a family affair.

If you don’t want to change careers and your passion projects don’t help your overall mood, talk to your boss. The problem may be in your workplace, not with you. Keep in mind that professional burnout ends up costing companies a significant amount of money each year. Stress is the number one culprit, and together, you and your supervisors may be able to come up with a plan that improves working conditions for everyone. This may be something as simple as a monthly team lunch to a full restructuring of your organization.

Achieving professional success and personal satisfaction is a choice. You can choose to maintain the mundane, or you can shake things up and watch all the aspects of your life fall into place.

How to Transition from Being a Full-Time Mom to a Mompreneur

It can feel impossible to have it all, especially as a mom. You want to have a career, contribute to your family, and dedicate time to your kids. That elusive balance can feel unattainable. However, thanks to the growing gig economy, it has never been easier to achieve.

Take Advantage of the Gig Economy

If your life is subject to last-minute changes and can be unpredictable, then the gig economy can be your greatest resource. These are the types of services that you request when you need them, such as Uber or Airbnb. The majority of these gigs have websites or apps where you can sign up for work. The best part: you create your schedule and decide what jobs to accept.

You can drive people around your city or town, run other people’s errands, or rent out a spare room whenever you feel like it. Dog walking and dog sitting is quickly become a popular part of the gig economy and is great for working moms. It is an excellent way to earn extra income at your own pace. You can even decide what type of dogs you are comfortable with.

Look at Your Strengths

If you’re feeling a little more ambitious or can commit more time to develop your side hustle, consider a skill you already have that you can turn into a business venture. Are you a good writer? Try freelance blogging. Photographer? Look into event photography. Excellent coordinator? Consider becoming a virtual assistant.

You can also turn your talents into something teachable, such as offering music or art classes out of your home. Entrepreneur even recommends putting your knowledge to use by becoming an online expert. Although you may start out with low rates, with the right amount of planning and growth, you can charge higher rates and earn more money. However, to make that happen, you have to be willing and ready to put in that effort.

The Elusive Work/Life Balance

The hardest thing for any working parent is finding the right work/life balance. It can be even more difficult if you are working out of your home. Oftentimes, work can easily blend into life, and life can blend into work — and then everything will suffer. This is why it is vital that you master your time management skills. The Balance Careers encourages working moms to set a schedule and create a routine to help craft a natural work/life balance.

When it is time to work, you need to work. When it is time for your family, be with your family. Set aside your own office space, and make it clear to your kids that they are not to disturb you unless it is an emergency. To make this easier, try and be upfront with your kids and help them manage their expectations. Keep in mind that if they are old enough while you are transitioning to working, they may take time to adjust to no longer being your sole attention.

Adjusting to a Working Life

You may need time adjusting to the working world, and that’s perfectly okay. Help yourself get in the zone by making sure you get dressed and resist the temptation to stay in your pajamas all day. You should also try turning off social media and limiting distractions. For those days when you’re really struggling, bribe yourself. Your kids don’t have to be the only ones rewarded for getting things done. You deserve some rewards, too.

Take Your Time

As with any transition, it can take time to get used to. Try to be patient with your family and with yourself. With the right amount of persistence, you’ll get there. Now, get to work!
Photo courtesy of Pexels

Tips for Sabbaticals: Planning for an Extended Leave

In today’s hustle and bustle world, there are people out there who do not know what a sabbatical is or what it entails. A sabbatical is an extended leave or career pause for at least two months. The time off may be used to complete some body of work or training that helps advance the individual’s career. A sabbatical can be paid or unpaid, but it depends on the employer and the benefits they provide. If a company does not offer paid sabbatical leave, the individual must find a way to stay financially stable during their time off while maintaining necessary benefits such as health insurance and retirement savings.

There are many reasons a person may want to take a sabbatical: 

  • Improves physical health
  • Inspires creativity
  • Strengthens personal relationships
  • Promotes emotional growth
  • Enhances productivity

Funding Your Sabbatical

If you own property, it can be a huge financial asset that helps fund your sabbatical. Renting out your property for the short term can cover your fixed expenses so you don’t have to exhaust your savings during your leave. While your home is being rented, you can take advantage of the time away to travel and expand your worldview. 

To set your home up as a rental property, make sure your home is clean and there are no pressing maintenance concerns. Stage your home before you take pictures for your listing. Furthermore, be very descriptive about the property so renters know what they are getting. Finally, add a security system so you can have eyes on your home even when you’re not there. 

Fortunately, Orange County offers plenty of attractions and activities for tourists year-round, which means you’ll have a steady flow of income regardless of what time of year you choose to pursue your sabbatical. As Turnkey points out, people who visit Orange County tend to flock to areas such as Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Irvine. So, regardless of where you are, there are likely plenty of prospects looking for a place to rent.

Planning a Sabbatical with Your Company

If you are going to take an extended amount of time off but you want to be able to come back to your current company when you are done, you’ll need to do plenty of planning. First of all, you have to know what you want from this time away. If you approach your boss or human resources department without being able to explain your motivation, they are not going to take your request seriously. Do diligent research and outline exactly where you want to go and what you want to do during your time. When hatching your plan, ask yourself the questions: 

  • Do you need to find a way to supplement your income while on sabbatical?
  • Why would this sabbatical be good for you personally?
  • Could taking an extended leave help advance your professional aspirations?
  • How will you explain your sabbatical on your resume? 
  • Could your sabbatical be good for the company? 
  • How is it beneficial for business?
  • Who will cover your work responsibilities while you are away?


Once you have a good plan laid out, it’s time to give your employer notice. Schedule a meeting with your supervisors as well as a representative from your human resources department. Before your meeting, prepare by rehearsing with a friend and loved one so you aren’t thrown off by possible questions that they send your way. When it’s finally time for the meeting, bring a device on which you can tape the conversation and let everybody know you plan on recording everything discussed. Once you’ve come up with an agreement, make sure you have everything in writing so you have something to refer to if there is a future disagreement. 

A sabbatical can improve your health, inspire creativity, strengthen your relationships, promote emotional growth, and enhance productivity. If you are going to take an extended time off, it’s important to plan. Having extra income is always a good idea — consider renting out your home while you travel. Once you’ve concocted a concrete plan for your sabbatical, talk with your employer about your options and get any agreements in writing for your security.

Selling at Craft Shows, Farmers Markets, and More: Booth Checklist for First-Time Vendors

Whether it’s a farmers market, craft show, or street fair, setting up at vendor fairs is a great way to grow your business and get your name out there. Despite how effortless vendors make it look, a lot of work goes into pulling off a market booth. If you’re a first-time vendor, use this checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a successful event.

The Basic Setup

1. Tent

Most outdoor events require a 10-foot-by-10-foot canopy. While not all markets regulate tent color, some require white tents, so buy white to be safe.

2. Tent Weights

Remember, market tents are basically giant umbrellas, so you’ll need weights to keep yours secured to the ground. Twenty-five pounds per leg is plenty for most events.

3. Tables and Vertical Displays

There’s no one way to display your wares at a vendor fair. Folding tables dressed up with a nice tablecloth (long enough to graze the ground) are a great starting point for any booth, but many seasoned vendors prefer vertical displays to increase product visibility.

4. Signage

It’s important to ensure that shoppers know exactly who you are. Printed vinyl banners are popular and affordable, but handmade and custom signs may offer more appeal. Banners can be hung on market tents, tables, or freestanding frames.

Taking Payments

5. Cash Box and Change

With luck, you’ll be earning good money at your first vendor fair. So, make sure you have somewhere safe to put it with a locking cash box. Some vendors also use aprons for collecting payments away from the cash box.

6. Receipt Book

Some shoppers will want receipts for their purchases, so be prepared with a basic carbon copy receipt book. You can also use a receipt book to track sales.

7. Credit Card Reader

Don’t count on customers carrying cash, especially when it comes to higher-priced purchases like artwork. Cell phone readers that plug into smartphones are the most popular choice for markets and fairs, as they’re highly portable and don’t require vendors to purchase new technology (providers like PayPal provide magstripe readers at no cost).

8. WiFi Device

Since credit card readers rely on the internet to operate, a stable WiFi connection is a must for market booths. Since WiFi at vendor events can easily get overloaded, invest in a hotspot device with a long battery life and phone-charging capabilities — you can find reliable models through providers such as Verizon for as low as $29.99. If hiring staff for your booth, you’ll also want your mobile hotspot to support multiple devices.

Other Booth Must-Haves

9. Price Signs

If a customer has to ask what something costs, they may opt to walk away instead. The prominence of pricing depends on the business — while large-print signage is ideal for farmers markets, discreet signage may be better for high-priced artwork. Either way, it’s smart to have.

10. Shopping Bags

Whether it’s paper, plastic, or a branded tote bag, make sure your customers have something convenient to carry their purchase away in.

11. Business Cards and Email Sign-Up

The best part of vendor fairs is the opportunity to turn first-time shoppers into loyal customers. With that in mind, have business cards handy and keep an email newsletter signup sheet by the checkout area so you can follow up with customers.

12. Water and Snacks

Vendor fairs can frequently last for hours, and there’s not always time to step away for a meal! So, remember to pack plenty of water — especially if the event is outdoors — and snacks you can eat between customers without worrying about sticky hands.

13. A Helping Hand

Depending on the size of the event, one person staffing the booth may be plenty. However, consider hiring an extra set of hands for high-traffic events or if you’re not much of a people person. Just avoid overcrowding — if you need more than two people, consider a second booth.

Are you worried about how you’ll remember everything for your first vendor event? Instead of leaving it up to chance, use this checklist to pack a dedicated market tote with all the essentials you need. That way, all you have to do is pack up your car and go!
Image via Unsplash

Getting Started with a Financial Plan for Your Family’s Future

Being a parent comes with a great deal of responsibility. Your children rely on you for safety, security, and stability. Make sure you’re ready for whatever life has in store for your family by focusing on financial planning. From budgeting for now to saving for the future, here are some simple rules for planning out your family’s finances.

You Should Start with a Budget

As a parent, you know how important planning your routine is to relieve daily stress. The same is true for your finances. When you begin to think about your financial future, you need to begin with a solid budget. Sit down and map out your income and expenses. Use an online tool or an app to pull your financial blueprints together. Even better, consider consulting a financial advisor to make sure you’re on track to reach your financial goals. A financial planner can help you with investments, savings, and estate planning, and give you some advice you know you can trust.  

Savings Are Essential

If you’re a parent or preparing to become one, now is a good time to start sinking money into your savings account. Even a little bit here and there can add up to a real difference down the road. A good goal is to save up a few months of expenses, but do whatever you can while still keeping your family comfortable. Try making those morning lattes at home and put the savings into your account. Looking for more ways to save? If you have some extra time, you can look into apps that will pay you to shop, scan receipts, or answer surveys. The payouts are pretty small, but those tiny amounts can add up to real change in your savings as time goes by. 

You Should Prepare for Education Expenses  

Research shows that college tuition has increased nearly 300 percent over the last few decades, and that number doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. If you want your kids to go to college, start planning for that future before they say set foot in a classroom. You can set up a separate college fund and contribute to it as you can. You can also look into other financial options that may be available to you if you’re getting ready to send your kids off to college in the next couple of years. Not planning on paying for college? There are still going to be costs associated with your children’s education. From school supplies to clothing/uniforms, school can be expensive no matter the grade. 

Life Insurance Can Be a Lifesaver 

No one wants to think about the end of their life, but if you have children, planning for the unthinkable is a must. Life insurance will ensure that your family is taken care of in the event of your death. Before you commit to a plan, do some research so that you understand the different types of policies, as well as premiums and cash values. Cash value is helpful, as you can always settle your policy to free up cash in retirement to help pay for medical expenses or other needs. Check the fine print of your policies to see how payouts work. Keep medical records at all times since you’ll need these for your final payout. 

You Need Good Health Insurance 

In addition to life insurance, health insurance is another must for families. If you have coverage through your employer and are planning on having a child, make sure they can be covered under your policy. Look into the deductibles for various services and try to set funds aside to cover your side of health expenses. A health savings account can be helpful in covering costs that will come out of your pocket. Don’t have coverage through your employer and don’t qualify for Medicaid? There are still health insurance options for your children. 

As a parent, you worry about your family’s safety. You can have one less worry by completing some financial planning now. So start planning, saving, and investing in your family’s future. 
Photo Credit: Pexels