Every person, at some point, pauses and asks: “What am I really here for?” or “Why do I say yes to one thing and no to another?” The longing for clarity and direction is universal. On a recent episode of the Rosabel Unscripted Podcast, I spoke with Ian Chamandi, Chief Purpose Officer at 7Words.biz and co-founder of PurposeU.ai. Ian believes you can express your life’s **purpose** in seven words or less—and once you do, it becomes a compass for everything you choose to do.
Why Defining Purpose Changes Everything
Most of us describe ourselves by jobs or roles, but those are just expressions of who we are. Ian frames purpose as the one thing at your essence that makes you uniquely remarkable. When you clarify that core, decisions feel aligned; you stop chasing opportunities that drain you and start recognizing the ones that fit your beliefs, wants, and talents.
The 7-Words Framework (from Boardroom to Personal Life)
Ian and his late partner first used their model to help organizations identify their “one thing.” Eventually, the method expanded to individuals through PurposeU. The process is deceptively simple: distill your calling into seven words or less. Ian’s own phrase—transforming confusion into clarity—guides every choice he makes.
Step One: Name What Makes You Remarkable
Begin with honesty. Ask: What is the one quality at my core that makes me different? Because we often compare ourselves to others, this can be tough. Look for patterns: the compliments you receive, the roles you naturally step into, the problems you instinctively solve. These are clues to your north star.
Step Two: Mine Your Wins for Proof
At PurposeU, participants analyze two meaningful accomplishments. From those stories, three themes emerge—beliefs, wants, talents. Think of them as the “atoms” that form your central statement. With Wordsmith, an AI assistant that connects dots you might miss, the hidden thread becomes visible and your seven-word line starts to take shape.
Step Three: Use It as a Compass
Consider your phrase a decision tool. When life presents options—career moves, partnerships, creative projects—don’t ask, “What’s best?” Ask, “Which path aligns with my core?” Alignment brings peace because it matches who you are at the deepest level. Choices that once felt murky become obvious.
Step Four: See What Clarity Can Unlock
Ian shared the Invictus Games example. Initially seen as a simple track meet for injured veterans, its aim was reframed as transforming empathy into action. That clarity raised $50 million, drew global artists, and reshaped how communities support veterans. Clear purpose attracts momentum, resources, and partners.
Step Five: Embrace a Nonlinear Path
Many fear that choosing a single line will trap them. The opposite is true. Ian has lived five careers, each flowing from the same center—simplifying complexity. Activities may change, but your essence remains. This is great news for multi-passionate people who feel “all over the place.” Your unifying thread keeps it coherent.
Step Six: It Doesn’t Change—It Deepens
Does purpose evolve? Ian says the wording may refine, but the core has been with you since youth. As a teen he loved making complex ideas simple; decades later, the same drive fuels his coaching and strategy work. Look back and you’ll likely see the through-line that’s been guiding you all along.
Step Seven: Aim for More Living, Not Just More Years
Clarity shows up in practical ways. Ian helped a long-term care company anchor around “more living.” By removing burdens like cooking and cleaning, residents could focus on joy and connection. Families heard that phrase and instantly understood the mission. A crisp statement of purpose becomes a promise people can feel.
Why People Struggle (and How to Start)
Most struggle because they don’t know the process. Books and talks inspire, but without steps, the idea stays vague. Structured guidance like PurposeU offers short videos and AI support to move from theory to language you can use. To begin on your own, list two meaningful wins, extract your beliefs/wants/talents, then experiment with a seven-word line.
Put Your Phrase to Work
Once your line feels right, test it against real decisions. Ask: does this collaboration, project, or habit reflect my center? If the answer is no, say no. Protecting alignment is how you build a life you’re proud of. Over time, the people around you will recognize—and rely on—your consistent contribution.
Final Thoughts
Define purpose in clear, simple words and you gain direction, energy, and peace. Your choices make sense. Relationships deepen. Contribution feels authentic. Whether you’re a CEO, caregiver, student, or creator, a seven-word line can become your lifelong compass.
Explore the full conversation with Ian on YouTube, visit 7Words.biz and PurposeU.ai to learn more.
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