Emotionally Intelligent People Use 3 Words to Make Smarter Choices and Grow

Understanding the Power of Mission, Vision, and Values

In 2008, Kevin Body found himself in a situation that many professionals might relate to—uncertainty about his role and responsibilities. After years of service in various fire departments in Washington and Colorado, he was promoted to the training division but had no clear direction from his boss or predecessor. This lack of guidance led him to create his first mission statement: “My mission as a Training Officer is to share my training, education, and experience in an inspirational manner that will help others achieve their full potential.”

This personal mission became the foundation for a broader framework that Body later developed through his coaching firm, Redline Leadership. The framework, known as Mission, Vision, Values (MVV), is rooted in emotional intelligence—the ability to understand and manage emotions. It serves as a tool to balance emotional responses with rational decision-making, helping individuals make choices that align with their core beliefs and long-term goals.

How Emotions Influence Decision-Making

As humans, we are naturally emotional beings. Emotions such as joy and curiosity drive us to explore and learn, while fear and anger can prompt us to take action when necessary. However, the challenge arises when temporary emotions lead to decisions we later regret. This is where the MVV framework becomes invaluable.

The MVV framework helps individuals navigate high-pressure situations by providing a clear guide for decision-making. It encourages people to make choices based on principles rather than fleeting emotions. This approach ensures that actions align with one’s values and long-term vision, even in moments of stress or uncertainty.

Defining Your Mission

Your mission is the reason you exist in a particular role, whether professional or personal. It answers the question: Why do I serve this customer or purpose? To identify your mission, start by defining your role and the people you serve. Reflect on what makes your presence meaningful in that role.

For example, a professional mission could be: “To help [your specific customer] learn to [accomplish a goal].” At EQ Applied, the mission is to help the greatest number of people harness the power of emotion for good and assist a limited number of individuals in developing emotional intelligence on a deeper level.

Clarifying Your Vision

Your vision represents the future you aspire to create. It is a visual representation of what success looks like in real life. Unlike metrics or performance indicators, a vision is more abstract and emotional. It should evoke feelings and provide a clear picture of your long-term aspirations.

For instance, Body envisions a scenario where an older, senior member sits at a table with a younger person, both smiling and engaged. This image symbolizes the impact of his work and the relationships he values. Your vision should be something you strive toward daily, guiding your actions and decisions.

Determining Your Values

Values are the core principles that guide your behavior and decisions. They represent what you prioritize and what you are unwilling to compromise. For example, Body’s professional values include honest and direct communication, growth opportunities, and personal accountability.

These values not only shape how you think but also influence how you act. They provide a strategic framework for making decisions that align with your character and long-term goals. By clearly defining your values, you create a strong foundation for consistent and principled behavior.

The Importance of Writing Down Your MVV

While your Mission, Vision, and Values may evolve over time, it is crucial to document them. Writing them down makes them tangible and allows others to hold you accountable. This practice also reinforces your commitment to living according to your principles.

Body emphasizes that having your MVV written down helps you stay focused and aligned with your goals. It serves as a reminder of who you are and what you stand for, especially during challenging times.

By embracing the MVV framework, you can make more informed, intentional decisions that reflect your true self and long-term aspirations. Whether in your personal life or professional career, this tool offers a powerful way to navigate complex situations and live a more purposeful life.