By Vicki Abelson, MBA PCC
Years ago, when working at a hospital, I was interviewing Juan, an older man working on the janitorial staff for an employee engagement survey. I don’t know what I was expecting, but what I got was a love letter to his work.
He told me with such certainty and confidence how much his work impacted the lives of patients that walked the hospital floors each and every day. He focused on patient safety (keeping the floors clean and dry, emptying sharps containers, etc.), but he also talked a lot about the conversations he would have with patients, families, and staff. Juan had gotten to know so many people over the years and built real relationships. Knowing that he had the power to improve their health and wellness kept him coming back to work with a smile on his face year after year.
When my clients ask me about leading their teams with purpose, I always think about Juan. In a world moving at warp speed, it’s easy for business owners to slip into reaction mode, making quick decisions, solving today’s problems, and putting out tomorrow’s fires. But when you lead only from urgency, you risk losing the one thing that keeps your organization grounded and growing: purpose.
But that can lead to stress, burnout, and a demotivated team that is looking for their next opportunity. Here are a few things to consider when thinking about leading with purpose. Purpose-driven leadership starts with clarity — about who you are, what you value, and why your business exists beyond profit. When leaders are rooted in purpose, decisions become simpler, communication becomes clearer, and teams become more engaged.
Start with your core values
Your company’s values aren’t just words on a wall; they’re the invisible compass that guides behavior and decision-making. Ask yourself: Would my team know what I stand for if I wasn’t in the room? When values are lived daily — in hiring, client relationships, and even tough conversations — they become a shared language for how your organization shows up in the world.
Know (and communicate) your mission and vision
Your mission is what you do. Your vision is where you’re going. Both should be crystal clear — and communicated often. When every team member can connect their daily work to that bigger picture, they’re not just employees; they’re co-architects of your success.
Communicate with intention
Every leader has a natural communication style. Some are direct and fast-paced; others are thoughtful and reserved. The most intentional leaders flex. They adapt their message to match their listener so they know that their message is heard and understood.
Give feedback that builds, not breaks
Purpose-driven leaders don’t avoid feedback; they master it. Feedback isn’t criticism, it’s information. When it’s rooted in values and delivered with empathy, it strengthens trust, engagement, and accountability.
Make decisions that align
When faced with a tough call, check it against your mission, vision, and values. Does it move you toward your vision? Does it align with who you say you are? Purpose-led decision-making ensures consistency and protects your culture when business pressures mount.
Vicki Abelson, MBA PCC, is a Certified Professional Coach with over 20 years of healthcare administration experience and the founder of The Defined Leader. She offers executive coaching and workshops. If you’re ready to see if leadership coaching is for you, visit thedefinedleader.com.
