I have read many manifestos and thought about creating one of my own, but I seem to always put it off. I am not putting it off anymore. This week, I will write my manifesto.
What is a Manifesto?
A manifesto is a public declaration of a person’s intentions, beliefs, motives, and opinions . In it’s simplest form, it is a document a person documents what is important to them. It is a statement of principles and a call to action. The manifesto challenges assumptions and provokes change. It challenges you to commit to what you say you believe in.
A manifesto should not be mistake with a mission statement. It is the mission statements, awesome kick ass, older sister. It is a bold statement that sets the tone for your life, career or your day.
The value of a Manifesto
A manifesto can be a valuable source of inspiration to you. Reading it daily can help you focus on what is important to you before you start your day. I know some people like to share their manifestos publically, but you do not have to do this. It is a declaration for you to use as a guide for future aspirations.
The ideal time to write a manifesto is now. Things do not have to be going wrong in your life for you to sudden write one. You can be very satisfied with the way your life is going and the manifesto then acts as a reminder to keep on keeping on when things get a little tough. Your manifesto keeps you focused and reading it daily will help you no matter what is going on in your life.
Writing Your Manifesto
There is no right or wrong way to write a manifesto. How you choose to do it, is strictly up to you. A good place to start is with a list of topics that are important to you. When I start writing mine, self-care, my children and how I deal with challenging situations will be a part of my manifesto.
After you have a few topics to focus on, write down your intentions, beliefs and motives for each topic. A manifesto gives you the opportunity to put it all out there. Use strong , active words and write in the present tense. This tends to give your manifesto more “oomph” and power.
Finally, write your manifesto down. You can type it up later and make it fancy, but the first time, write it on paper. There is something about actually taking the time to write down something as important as your manifesto. This could end up being one of the most important pieces of writing you do in your life or it could lead to you writing a manifesto for your life.
I am looking forward to this exercise and I hope you join me in creating a manifesto.
Great post — and remind people to revise it as they change.
Lu, I love this. I wrote a manifesto a few years ago and it’s been so powerful to pull me back on track when I’m living below who I’m supposed to be. And yes, sometimes reading it also can make me feel a little inadequate. I say that’s not a bad thing if it calls me to action and motivates me to step up. God knows the Queen within. But I’m the one who has to allow her to show up. xo