16 May Define Your Purpose
Mick White, Founder of 100 Year Manifesto joins the Menttium Matters podcast to discuss the critical role purpose plays in our lives. Whether in leadership, parenting or everyday interactions, when you define your purpose, you unlock clarity, confidence and a powerful ripple effect.
From Entrepreneurial Roots to Global Influence
Raised in a family of entrepreneurs, Mick learned early on the power of vision and perseverance. But it was through personal loss, parenting challenges and mental health struggles that he truly discovered what it means to define your purpose.
Influences that shaped Mick’s philosophy:
- His father’s transformation: From insurance executive to “Minister of Joy.”
- His mother’s legacy: A grocery clerk whose deep love drew hundreds to her funeral.
- His own journey: Navigating divorce, anxiety and career shifts while staying grounded in values.
Ask Better Questions, Live a Better Life
Mick encourages us to move past superficial questions like “What do you want to be?” and instead ask:
- Who do you want to be?
- What legacy do you want to leave?
By reframing our inner dialogue, we open the door to true alignment and clarity.
The Baby Step Strategy
When life feels overwhelming, Mick recommends starting small. His signature method of taking “baby steps” emphasizes that tiny, consistent actions lead to massive change over time.
Real-life stories:
- Calling his mom daily: A 643-day streak that became a cherished memory after her passing.
- A client’s reconciliation: Daily texts led to walking her daughter down the aisle after years of estrangement.
These examples prove that when you define your purpose and act on it, transformation follows.
Creating Purpose-Driven Communities
To scale impact and make purpose accessible, Mick founded several initiatives:
- Purpose-Driven Coffee
A monthly, in-person event where hundreds gather to discuss meaning, connection and growth.
- Purpose Fueled (Online Community)
An accessible space for busy professionals and parents to discover and live out their purpose.
- The Purpose Academy
A corporate training platform that helps employees:
- Define personal purpose
- Integrate it into their roles
- Track progress using a proprietary Purpose Quotient metric
These platforms are designed to support people at every stage of the journey.
The Myth of Work-Life Balance and the Reality of Congruence
Mick critiques the “work-life balance” model and introduces the concept of life congruence, where every area of life flows in the same direction, aligned with a clear purpose.
“I want all areas of my life, faith, family, career—to agree.”
When values align, decisions become easier and more authentic.
Advice for Emerging Leaders
To his younger self and to today’s aspiring leaders Mick offers this guidance:
- Be more of yourself, sooner.
- Embrace your uniqueness without apology.
- Take bold action, even if it feels like a small step.
His 2025 mantra? “All in. No regrets.” A powerful reminder to live boldly and without hesitation.
Resource Mentioned
- The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran
Conclusion: Purpose is the Ultimate Differentiator
In today’s fast-paced, stress-filled world, the ability to define your purpose is more than self-help, it’s a survival skill. Mick White’s message serves as a beacon for anyone seeking clarity, fulfillment and impact. Whether you’re a CEO, a parent or simply someone craving more meaning, this episode offers the inspiration and tools to take your next step.
About Mick White
Mick White is a sought-after speaker, coach, and founder of The 100 Year Manifesto, a purpose-driven framework designed to help individuals and organizations align their decisions with long-term values and legacy. With a background in entrepreneurship and a heart for mentorship, Mick helps people define their purpose, live it out with intention and create impact that echoes for generations. Through his signature initiatives, Purpose-Driven Coffee, Purpose Fueled, and The Purpose Academy, Mick empowers communities and corporations to connect, grow and thrive with clarity and meaning.