GOT VISION?

Do you have a vision for a better future?  What kind of picture would you paint?   Imagine, instead of succombing to apathy or remaining “as is,” you dream of what could be, devise a clear plan, and simply implement it.  Sounds good right?  But, how exactly would that work?

 According to Andy Stanley, in his book Visioneering, there are simply four vital components to a vision:

1. The problem.  The goal is to be clear about the problem first and foremost.  Too often we settle for fuzzy thinking when it comes to defining our current reality.  Writing down the problem allows you to see what you are thinking.  So…what is your current problem?  Why is it a problem?  BTW: Is your thinking the problem?
2. The solution.  Next, determine the solution.  How can the problem be fixed?  Typically there are multiple solutions to any problem.  Writing down several solutions to the problem brings encouragement to your situation.  Embrace possibility thinking.  Once you have several possible solutions written down, prioritize them to determine the best solution.
3. The reason something must be done.  Now it’s time to determine why “status quo” cannot continue.  Again, there must be clarity in why the solution is worth pursuing.   If you really want to see change in your organization, you will need a compelling reason for change.  Most people want improvement without making change.  This is where your “reasoning” makes all the difference.  Is it really worth your time & money?  Your people will only "buy-in" if you do!
4. The reason something must be done now.   Mike Roach once said, “strategy without execution is hallucination!” A vision states that, “something must be done now; not two years from now!”  How common is it for our current budgets or schedules to dictate our ability to take action?   A great vision will tell your resources where to go; not the other way around.  Lincoln Brewster sings the song: "Today is the Day."  Isn't it worth singing your tune (vision) today?

So...got vision?   Granted, there will be obstacles and resistance.  In fact, the bigger the vision the greater the tension.  However, you can gain great traction right now by using this four step guideline.

Clarify and implement your better future.  

Take the next few minutes to answer the four questions: What's the problem?  What's the solution?  Why must something be done?  Why must something be done now?  Let's go!