VISION is everything

"The future belongs to those who see possibilities before they become obvious."
                            --John Sculley (Former CEO, Pepsi)

Vision is everything for leadership success. It LEADS you.  It gives you your spark and fuels the fire within--it sparks the fire for others to follow.  Without vision you won't be moving forward--at best you'll be travelling in circles.

Getting a Handle on VISION and Making It a Part of Your Life:

1) Vision Starts Within
One cannot create a vision for someone else.  If you lack vision, look inside yourself.  (Look for what could be)  Look to your calling if you have one, and if you don't--consider working together with someone whose vision resonates with you

2) Vision Draws on Your History
It grows from your past and the history of the people around you.  Many leaders cite key events in their past that were instrumental in creating their vision.

3) Vision  Meets Others' Needs
True vision is far-reaching, and if it has real value, it does more than just include others--it adds value to others.  If you have a vision that doesn't serve others, it's probably too small.

4) Vision Helps You Gather Resources
Vision attracts, challenges, and unites people, bringing resources and funding.  The greater the vision the larger following you can attract and if it's a challenging one, the harder people will fight to achieve it.

Where Does VISION Come From?

There are several aspects that you'll reflect upon or 'listen to' to find the successful vision for you:

1)  Your Inner Voice--vision starts within you.  Do you know your life's mission?   What stirs your heart? If what you're pursuing in life doesn't come from a  desire within--from the very depths of who you are (and believe)--you will not be able to accomplish it.

2) Discontent--Inspiration for great ideas comes from noticing what does NOT work.  Discontent with the status quo is a great catalyst for vision.  No great leader in history has ever fought to prevent change.

3) Advisement--Look to someone who is ahead of you in the leadership journey for sound advice.  Finding a mentor can help you lead others to greatness.  Do you have an advisor who can help you sharpen your vision?

How Can I Improve my VISION?

1) Measure Yourself--Measure how well you are carrying out your vision.  Speak with several key people who know you, asking them to state what they think your vision is--If they can articulate it then you're probably living it.

2) Write It Down--If you've thought about your vision but never put it in writing, take the time to do it today.  Writing it will clarify your thinking and provide direction.  Is this worthy of all my time and energy for life?

3) Passion--What's in your gut?---If you haven't done a lot of work on your vision, spend time over weeks or months to do so.  Evaluate what you are very passionate about.  What makes you dream?  What gives you energy or drive?  What would you like to see change in the world around you? What do you see that isn't--but could be?  IMPACT.

Work with a mentor or any other additional/impactful resources to solidify your vision and plan your life's work.