What exactly is a vision? Simply, it is the ability to create a mental, future oriented, image with a clear goal, i.e., a signpost to your future. It communicates your organization’s direction, guides the work of today, and paints a picture of the future which fully engages your people. It is one of the most critical leadership skills in today’s uncertain business environment — almost a forecast of where your company is going – what is your destination? And what is your future?
It is also much more than just an image of your future. Vision motivates and shapes meaning. It gives purpose to the work and inspires commitment. It answers the questions:
- Where are we going?
- Why are we doing this?
It provides a picture of your desired future and encourages people to strive for its attainment with a promise that there is something in it for everyone!
In short, having a vision:
- Energizes people and focuses their commitment
- Creates meaning in everyday work life
- Establishes a standard of excellence
- Bridges the present to the future
- Transcends the status quo
Numbers 4 and 5 are significant in today’s erratic world. It is your daily job as the leader to refocus everyone’s thinking, since the world is a scary place right now. Vision gives them the promise that as everyone pulls together and works hard toward a bigger and better future, you will be successful. All great leaders have done this.
SHARED VISION
Vision encourages everyone to join the campaign and be part of realizing the desired new state. It forms a bond between leadership and workers. This all magnifies to increase the possibilities of the vision, which would be an empty dream without complete involvement. Vision comes alive only when shared. It takes everyone to a new place and challenges them as they translate that vision into reality. All changes begin with a mental picture. It is really a necessity, for without it everyone is adrift in confusion or conflicting priorities. It focuses the collective energies of your organization on results.
The leader manages that journey in three stages:
- Creating an image of the desired future
- Providing clear, concise, consistent communication
- Empowering all to play their part
THE HOW TO’S OF DEVELOPING A VISION
- Know your organization – clarify its nature and purpose
- Involve critical individuals
- Explore all possibilities
- Put it in writing
A word of caution: without action, a vision is merely a dream!
Action plans are crucial to the success of your vision. Bring it to life so that everyone understands how what they do plays a part in the bigger picture. Everyone must know their value in attaining the vision, and everyone must understand their contribution to success.