The Significance Factor: Leading with Purpose and Achieving Greatness

What makes someone truly successful? According to Dr. Wayne Purnell—aka Dr. P—it’s not the titles, paychecks, or perks. It’s purpose. Dr. P digs into what it means to lead with intention and live a life that actually matters.

Key Takeaways

  • Treasure > Want: Don’t just ask, “What do I want?” Ask, “What do I treasure?” That’s the stuff worth building your life around.

  • Be Before You Get: You won’t become your future self by accident. Act like the person you want to be—today.

  • Values Change: What mattered at 25 may not matter at 45. Revisit your values often. Adjust your vision accordingly.

Notable Quotes

  1. “You don’t become the person when you get the thing. You get the thing because you became the person.”

  2. “You’re not broken. You’re in charge. You own your day.”

  3. “Let go of the shoulds. They’re not your voice.”

  4. “Ask yourself every morning: How do I get to serve greatly today?”

Real-World Applications

  • Career Pivot:
    Example: You’ve outgrown your corporate role. Instead of chasing a title, ask: “What do I treasure about my work?” That might lead you to start coaching or consulting—just like Emily did.

  • Leadership Style:
    Example: A manager leads not by authority but by choosing to be present and generous—by asking, “How can I serve my team greatly today?”

  • Mental Reboot:
    Example: Feeling stuck? Take 10 minutes to stare out the window or journal. Let your mind wander. That’s where clarity starts.

Leading with purpose isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a daily practice. When you shift from chasing “more” to living in line with what you truly treasure, greatness follows—not because of what you get, but because of who you become. Start now. Be that person today.

 
 

Time Stamps:

04:27 The Concept of Personal Values

19:09 Understanding Life Transitions

23:31 Core Values vs Peripheral Values

24:43 The Importance of Fun

26:43 Becoming the Person You Want to Be

32:55 Daily Gratitude and Service

36:02 Creating a Culture of Caring

39:13 The Power of Incremental Growth

43:09 The Role of Coaches

Links Mentioned:

 

About The Author

Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense. 

Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.

Next
Next

Outsmarting Imposter Syndrome: Rewiring the Brain for Confidence in 3 Steps