Purpose | The Role of Purpose in Pharmacy Leadership Pt1

The Role of Purpose in Pharmacy Leadership - Part 1

Introduction: Have you ever considered how a clear sense of purpose can propel your career as a healthcare professional, especially in the pharmacy field? Purpose isn't just a philosophical notion; it's a cornerstone of professional excellence. In this two-part series, we'll delve into why purpose matters, what science tells us about it, the risks of neglecting it, and how it aligns with your pharmacy leadership role, as outlined in the "6Ps of Professional Excellence Self-Assessment for Healthcare Managers and Leaders."

Defining Purpose: Purpose is the profound reason behind everything we do, the 'why' that fuels our actions. It's the force that gives our lives and careers meaning, transcending the day-to-day tasks and contributing to something greater.

Why It Matters:

Having a clear and compelling vision for the future of pharmacy is the cornerstone of leadership. It's your purpose that drives this vision and inspires your team to follow. Purpose ensures that your actions align with the values of the pharmacy where you work, creating a harmonious and effective workplace. By providing a sense of meaning and purpose to your team members, you empower them to excel in their roles. Purpose connects you with the core mission of your work, emphasizing its positive impact on the community you serve.

The Science:

Research in positive psychology, such as Seligman's work on flourishing, underscores the significance of purpose in enhancing overall well-being and motivation. [Source 1]  Neuroscience reveals that a clear sense of purpose activates regions of the brain associated with motivation and goal pursuit. [Source 2]

Risks:

Neglecting or overlooking your purpose in pharmacy leadership can have profound consequences. Without a sense of purpose, you and your team risk:

• Disengagement
• Burnout
• Decreased team morale
• Impact on patient care

Practical Applications:

Here are four practical ways to become an even more effective pharmacy leader and harness the power of purpose:

• Vision Alignment: Continuously review and communicate your pharmacy's vision to your team, ensuring it aligns with your sense of purpose.
• Values Alignment: Regularly assess whether your actions and decisions align with the pharmacy's values.
• Team Empowerment: Provide opportunities for your team members to contribute their talents and ideas while aligning them with the pharmacy's purpose.
• Community Connection: Foster a deeper connection between your team and the community by emphasising the positive impact of their work.