Kim Polman: My Life on Purpose
4 minute read
Kim Polman is the co-author of Imaginal Cells: Visions of Transformation, a passionate advocate for ethical leadership, and the co-founder of Reboot the Future, a foundation focused on promoting the “golden rule” – treating others and the planet as one would like to be treated.
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What does purpose mean to you?
Honestly, I’m not a big fan of the word “purpose” as it’s often used today. Instead of focusing on having a purpose, I think it’s more important to ask yourself, “Is what I’m doing helpful or hurtful?” For me, that’s the essential question. I aim to be helpful and contribute positively to the world.
What inspires you?
Inspiration for me comes from simple yet profound principles, like the “golden rule” – treating others and the planet as you would like to be treated. I believe that this principle should extend to how we treat our environment, which is crucial for the future of our planet.
Instead of focusing on having a purpose, I think it’s more important to ask yourself, “Is what I’m doing helpful or hurtful?”
I’m also inspired by the evolution of leadership. In the past, leadership was often about efficiency and profit. But I see a shift happening – more leaders today are emphasising respect, humility, and even love. These are the qualities that resonate with me and inspire my work.
Tell me about your daily routine.
I wouldn’t say I have a strict routine, but I try to maintain a sense of gratitude throughout my day. I find it’s important to take a moment to be thankful for the positives in life, no matter how small. This mindset helps me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters – helping others and making a positive impact.
How do you embrace uncertainty in your work and life?
Life is full of uncertainties, and the key is to focus on what you can control. In business, there’s often a tension between making profits and having a meaningful purpose. I try to balance this by maintaining hope and gratitude, even when things are uncertain. It’s not always easy, but I believe that focusing on positive contributions – whether to people or the planet – can help navigate through the complexities of life.
Life is full of uncertainties, and the key is to focus on what you can control.
Who inspires you?
I’m deeply inspired by Jon Kabat-Zinn and his work on mindfulness and meditation. His approach to the mind-body connection has profoundly influenced the way I think about mental health and wellbeing. I also admire Joanna Macy for her environmental activism and her philosophy of deep ecology. And Donella Meadows – her work in systems thinking and sustainability has been incredibly influential in how I view our world and the challenges we face.
What books have helped you in your journey?
I have a few favourites that I always come back to:
- The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff is one of them; I love how it uses the characters from Winnie the Pooh to explore Taoist philosophy in such a simple, yet profound way.
- The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler offers such valuable insights into the science of happiness and how to cultivate it in our lives.
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl is also a book that I hold close. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of finding purpose and meaning, even in the most challenging circumstances.
What would you like to be remembered for?
I’d like to be remembered not just for any specific achievements but for the positive impact I’ve had on others and the planet. My goal is to be helpful rather than just purposeful, and I hope that’s what people will take away from my work and my life.
