Declare It

Simon Sinek always makes me think.  His posts on focusing one's life always make me think.  This post did the same, but from a different angle.

Sinek's analysis (albeit from a few weeks ago) offers some interesting insight and perspective on happenings in so many Middle Eastern countries.  But what I found even more valuable was his description of declarations, and their importance.  Even more than countries, I believe a lot of organizations would benefit from writing a declaration - in this case, non-profit organizations.

A declaration is a statement of beliefs, of intention.  And, just as important, it indicates exclusion - what will not be pursued or focused on.

A declaration is more powerful than a simple mission or vision statement, at least in the way many organizations use these statements.  A declaration shouts its intention, unforgettably and irrefutably.  Once something has been declared, there's no backing down.  It's out there, declared - everyone knows.

But more than this end statement, an organization's declaration can begin to describe how this result will be achieved.  What steps will be taken?  What principles matter?  What standards can't be lost?  How will the goal be achieved?

What other things would you cover in your organization's declaration?