What is at the top of the hierarchy of a mission statement

Values
Vision
Purpose
goals

Values

The top of the hierarchy of a mission statement is typically occupied by the organization's purpose or its mission itself. The purpose represents the reason for the organization's existence and what it aims to achieve at its core. It captures the fundamental beliefs and principles that guide the organization's decisions and actions. The purpose sets the direction for everything else in the mission statement hierarchy.

Values, on the other hand, represent the guiding principles or ethical standards that an organization upholds. They define the organization's culture and provide a framework for decision-making and behavior.

Vision generally follows the purpose and represents the organization's long-term aspirations or goals. It articulates the desired future state that the organization hopes to achieve.

Goals are usually not at the top of the mission statement hierarchy. Instead, goals are specific and measurable objectives that an organization sets to achieve its purpose, values, and vision. Goals often come after the purpose, values, and vision in the mission statement hierarchy and serve as tangible targets for the organization to strive towards.

At the top of the hierarchy of a mission statement is the Purpose. The Purpose outlines the reason or the core element of why an organization exists. It expresses the fundamental principles and values that guide the organization's actions and decisions. The Purpose defines the organization's overarching mission and provides a sense of direction for the organization. Values, Vision, and Goals are typically elements that support and align with the Purpose.