We all know how exciting it can be when you first have an idea that you’d like to turn into a business. Once you have that idea in your head the creative juices begin to flow. And before you know it, without any formal plan, you have the whole look, feel, and purpose of your business all mapped out…in your head. But how will others that are important in the success of your business, like employees, potential investors, or clients be privy to that?  They need to know why are you in business, what’s the purpose of your product, and what do you spend your time focusing on in your business before they can be a part of it. You can answer all of those questions with a mission statement.

A mission statement tells others of your company’s purpose. It tells how you and your employees spend time at your business. It tells your audience why you do what you do every day to achieve the goals you set forth for your business.

Let’s take a look at the mission statement of Coca Cola:

“To refresh the world in body, mind and spirit. To inspire moments of optimism through our brands and our actions. To create value and make a difference everywhere we engage.”

In their mission statement, Coca Cola tells you exactly what they do and how they plan on doing it. Not every mission statement is going to be this short, but it is right to the point. Being such a large corporation this is just one of Coca Cola’s mission statements. You, luckily only need one so make it a good one!

Your mission statement should be clear and concise addressing the purpose of your existence. It is what defines your brand’s objectives.

Here are some questions to ask yourself that Sage Wedding Pros posted on their site to guide you as your craft your own mission statement:

• Why are you in business?
• Who are your customers?
• What is the nature of your products and services?
• What level of service do you provide?
• What roles do you and your employees play?
• What kind of relationships do you maintain with suppliers?
• How do you differ from competitors?
• How will you reach your goals?
• What underlying philosophies or values guide your business?

Take your time when writing your mission statement; you want to make sure it embodies all that you want your company to stand for. Brainstorm and think about what motivates you to be in your business and how you intend on accomplishing that goal.

Naomi is the founder of  TWIPS , owner of At First Blush & Co. a wedding design & planning boutique in San Diego, and editor of Inside the Lovely, a lifestyle blog for the modern woman.