In the modern world of work, the concept of purpose is gaining in importance, transforming industries, companies and the way in which people perceive their professional role. It has been realised in many circumstances and in different companies that having a clear purpose can improve performance, increase motivation and lead to success at both individual and organisational levels. Whether it's education, art or business, in the format of interviews conducted by Darren Rudkin, founder of The Mind at Work, entitled "Purpose Pioneers Series," we learn how having a clear purpose helps people work with passion, make a difference and achieve meaningful results.
The central role of Purpose in education
All sectors can be “purpose-full”, even that of the school. Managing a class of students can be a huge challenge, but if students understand their purpose and are motivated to learn, the teacher's work becomes more effective. Dame Sally Coates, Director of Academies United Learning, emphasises the importance of having a clear purpose in teaching: “Being a teacher is a difficult job - in fact, all jobs are difficult and present challenges. I need to ensure that children behave well and that teachers can teach. It's my job to provide that support. I talk about learning, and when children are sent to me, I bring them back to their purpose.” Key to her approach is helping students understand that learning is a step toward their greater purpose in life, not just an academic obligation.
Purpose and business: a synergy for success
In the business world, Gary Lubner, former CEO of Belron International, has demonstrated how purpose can be a driver of business success. During his tenure, he transformed Belron from a company with a €600 million turnover to a global giant with a turnover of €6 billion. Lubner attributes much of this success to the ability to link his work to a greater purpose: "What I loved was that when I went to work every day, I felt that in my role and in my position, I could make a difference." This mindset allowed Lubner to lead the company with passion and dedication, improving the customer experience and engaging the staff.
We are not always aware of the breadth of our choices and decisions. We are often focused on achieving an objective, however small, on the task to be accomplished in the immediate future. Yet, the role of purpose remains critical because it helps create the right collaborative and creative climate in the team. "The more you can bring purpose into the midst of collaboration, co-creation and relationships”, comments Karsten Breum, Chief People Officer at Danske Bank, “the better you will be able to produce a more meaningful outcome." Focusing on purpose helps companies build more cohesive teams and create added value for their customers and stakeholders.
Purpose as a guide in decision-making
In fact, purpose in its broadest sense is a compass that guides decisions towards a bigger, more meaningful goal, rather than towards an end in itself. Federico Frattini, Dean of POLIMI Graduate School of Management, underlines this is as he examines how purpose can influence the way decisions are made in business. Traditionally, business schools have focused on the importance of results. However, Professor Frattini explains that results should be seen as "a starting point to tell you if you are moving towards your deeper purpose". Purpose is the key to transforming not only the way we work, but also the way we live. Focusing solely on results can be a source of stress, especially when certain factors are outside your control. For Carsten Egeriis, CEO of Danske Bank, the purpose-driven change of mindset also helps manage stress and improve performance. "I'm going to keep reminding myself: What do I have control over?” he says, commenting on the questions he asks himself daily: “Where can I make a difference? Am I doing the best I can? This is a big shift for me in terms of mentality." By adopting this perspective, leaders can reduce stress and focus on what is really under their control, thereby improving their effectiveness and overall wellbeing.
Purpose in art: a balance between goals and possibilities
Purpose also plays a central role in artistic expression. Hermann Niebuhr, a painter renowned for his works which also have a social aspect, offers a unique perspective on purpose in the creative context. According to Niebuhr, artists live in a constant state of tension between a desire to achieve a specific outcome and an openness to the possibilities that the creative process can offer. "It’s having a laser focus while being completely open to possibilities without knowing where you're going, compared to a laser focus in a very narrow domain with blinkers on", he explains. This ability to balance structure and flexibility is what enables artists to innovate and create works that resonate deeply. But more specifically, it is purpose, which generates a powerful energy, that transcends the boundaries of sectors and professions, positively affecting performance and satisfaction.
The International Full-Time MBA: a path inspired by purpose
Purpose is also one of the cornerstones of our educational portfolio and is central to the International Full-Time MBA. The aim of the Master is to prepare future managers, entrepreneurs and leaders with specific skills and abilities to be guides in their professional activities, but also to be a source of inspiration to shape a better future.
