A mission statement is a brief declaration that outlines an organization's core purpose, values, and goals. It serves as a guiding principle for decision-making and helps communicate the organization's intentions to employees, customers, and stakeholders. A well-crafted mission statement can inspire and motivate individuals within the organization. Typically, a mission statement includes key elements such as the organization's target audience, the services or products it offers, and the unique value it provides. For example, a nonprofit organization might emphasize its commitment to community service, while a business may focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.