Iria Abram

Whatever we strive to do in life—whether it's building a business, launching a ministry, or starting a nonprofit—we must ask ourselves one fundamental question: Why am I doing this?

Too often, people pursue goals not out of purpose, but out of pain. They’re working tirelessly to prove a point to someone from their past—a parent who doubted them, a teacher who dismissed them, or even a former friend who laughed at their dreams. These phantom voices linger in the background, fueling ambition not with purpose, but with unresolved hurt.

While that kind of drive might get you started, it won’t sustain you. Goals rooted in ego, revenge, or the need for validation will eventually run out of steam. They may produce results, but they often leave us feeling empty—because deep down, we know the foundation wasn’t solid.

The truth is, for any goal to truly thrive—especially in the face of setbacks and adversity—it has to be bigger than you. It has to matter beyond your personal wins. It has to be something that opens doors, unlocks possibilities, and brings light into other people’s lives. That kind of goal has power. That kind of goal changes communities, shifts generations, and attracts support from people who want to be a part of something meaningful.

And this isn't just a mindset principle—it’s a proven business truth. If you're seeking funding, building partnerships, or applying for grants, people want to know one thing: Who does this help besides you?

Funders, collaborators, and even customers are looking to connect with a mission that makes a difference. They're not interested in vanity projects or personal redemption arcs. They want to support initiatives that bring value, healing, opportunity, and transformation to others.

When your “why” touches lives, your work takes on a new dimension. The late nights don’t feel quite so heavy. The roadblocks become detours instead of dead ends. The passion burns brighter, because it’s fueled by love, purpose, and vision—not just pain.

So take time to examine your goals. Strip away the noise and ego. What’s at the heart of your mission? Who will be better because you didn’t give up?

When your answer reflects impact, service, and purpose—you’re not just chasing a dream. You’re building a legacy. And that’s the kind of work that’s destined to do great things.