One of the best ways to build strength and focus in 2015 is to create a manifesto.
A manifesto is like a compass not a map. It’s a declaration of principles, beliefs and intentions. It’s a rallying cry: statements or images or even just one word that embodies what you stand for.
The example (above) is Mars Dorian’s work. A visual story-teller and online illustrator, Dorian brilliantly combines images and words into a manifesto that really packs a punch.
Because I want your manifesto to be something you print, post, and read every day as a reminder of what’s truly important to you, here are a few examples and how-to questions to get you energized as you create your unique manifesto.
Example Manifestos
Apple’s Manifesto
Apple uses an 8-point manifesto. One of the things I love most about this manifesto (even if I’m not an Apple evangelist) is that SAYING NO is explicit!
1. We believe that we’re on the face of the earth to make great products.
2. We’re constantly focusing on innovating.
3. We believe in the simple, not the complex.
4. We believe we need to own and control the primary technologies behind the products that we make and participate only in markets where we can make a significant contribution.
5. We believe in saying no to thousands of projects so that we can focus on the few that are meaningful to us.
6. We believe in deep collaboration and cross pollination in order to innovate in a way others cannot.
7. We don’t settle for anything other than excellence in any group in the company.
8. We have the self-honesty to admit when we’re wrong and the courage to change.
Just Three Words: You, Your Loved Ones, Your Work
I also love how Chris Brogan creates his annual manifesto in just three words. Chris is the awesome author of books like Trust Agents and The Freaks Shall Inherit the Earth , and he leads the Owner Media Group . (If you don’t know Chris, put getting to know him near the top of your priorities list this year! You’ll be very glad you did.)
Here’s how Chris Brogan picks his 3-word manifesto for the year:
Make the first word about yourself, the second about your loved ones, the third about your business.”
Questions to Create Your Manifesto
What do you believe / what drives you?
What do you NOT believe?
What were some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned last year?
What do you do consistently, even if you have to fight for it?
What’s one thing you’re great at and love; no matter what, you’ll do it?
What is one thing you’ll let go of or forgive yourself for?
One last awesome example from
Mars Dorian (left)
.
When we don’t know where we’re going we’ll end up someplace we don’t want to be.
Write your manifesto for 2015 and may it be the compass that guides your path in joy-and-success-filled ways!
May 2015 be your best year yet!
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What a fabulous idea Jone! I have never created a manifesto before, so here goes:
1. I believe we are all reflections of each other, we just need to be brave enough to look in the mirror
2. I believe connection will save the human race
3. I believe every fear only exists to teach us about love
4. I believe we all have amazing untapped potential
5. I believe simple and kind is always the best way
6. I believe compassion and forgiveness is the missing key to everything
7. I believe every experience has meaning and purpose
8. I believe the Universe speaks in symbols and once you learn the language, communicating with Spirit is fun
9. I believe everything exists in cycles and when you work with the cycle, not against it, magic happens
10. I believe hugs, giggles and wine make everything better
11.I believe miracles are an everyday occurrence
Dear Jenean,
Your manifesto is absolutely gorgeous! You are miraculous! Thank you so much for creating and sharing your manifesto — I’m picturing you creating a great image-rich board of it for your new office. #PeaceHug and love, Jone
I think your manifesto is great, too. I may have to adopt it for myself!
Thanks for weighing in, Sue! Yes, isn’t Jenean’s manifesto marvelous? How about yours?
#PeaceHug, Jone