Sometimes when people talk about goals, it feels like they’re racing ahead without asking the most important question. Why? Why are you doing it? Who are you doing it for?
For me, everything starts with whakapapa. My tūpuna. My whānau. My mokopuna I haven’t met yet but who might one day benefit from the mahi I do now. That’s who I hold in my mind and heart when I’m setting intentions.
I’m not here to lead for the sake of leading. I want my mahi to carry something deeper. I want it to reflect the people I come from. To feel like home. That’s why I always check myself. Is this kaupapa aligned with my whakapapa? Does it uplift my whānau or just boost my profile?
Your why is your pou. When that’s strong, your mahi is steady. You’re not just setting goals. You’re honouring the legacy you carry. You’re choosing to lead in a way that holds mana.
Before you chase outcomes, come back to your foundations. Set intentions that are tapu to you. The kind that hold meaning even if no one’s watching.
Quick Practice: He Wero Iti (A Small Challenge)
- Take a moment to write down three people or groups who shape your why.
- Write one intention that honours each of them.
- Keep that list somewhere visible for the week ahead.
