Earlier this month Wedge asked me to re-write our Mission Statement. The old one was tired and dull and it certainly needed revamping. Wedge asked for something ‘inspirational and aspirational’ to carry LifeSIGNS swiftly into the future, so I set to work.

My first task was to engage the members of our Strategic Guidance Group, a small group of dedicated Message Board members who care about the future and direction of LifeSIGNS Voluntary Organisation. I started a thread asking for their input and they were quick respond with helpful thoughts and ideas.

By the end of last week I was ready to start writing the new Mission Statement. Sadly, although it was longer and more inclusive, it was still rather dull – not what LifeSIGNS is about at all.

Wedge quickly responded to my first draft with a wonderful email instructing me to add some pizzazz! I was promoted to GothicSuperJules for the duration of the exercise in order that I could create something mind-blowing, and worthy of LifeSIGNS.

Never being one to do things by halves, the creative juices started to flow and I allowed the full extent of my enthusiasm for LifeSIGNS to be let loose. Maybe a bit too loose – Wedge said my second draft ‘blew his morning cobwebs away’!

Wedge cast his expert editor’s eye over the second draft and provided a variety of helpful notes and suggestions for further improvement. Between us we perfected a third and final draft and I waited excitedly as Wedge unveiled it to the world with these words:

“Yes, it’s different, it’s directive, it’s comprehensive and it’s long – all the things that Mission Statements are ‘supposed’ to avoid – well LifeSIGNS is different, and it’s time we showed our strengths.

“Our Mission Statement is aspirational and inspirational, and will colour all our work for the years to come. It shows our commitment and passion, and will no doubt make other organisations’ Mission Statements seem dull and pedestrian.”

Read our new Mission Statement here, but hold on to your socks!

Thank you to all SGG members for your helpful contributions. If anyone is interested in joining our Strategic Guidance Group, please email Wedge@lifesigns.org.uk.

Wedge and Jules