Do you wrestle with the concept of a vision? Where do you want to be in five or ten years in your personal or business life? 
It’s ironic, the word “vision,” associated with sight, is something that’s hard to see. We want our vision to be clear, yet our perspective of the future is often vague, murky or cloudy.
If you’re the leader, and want others to willingly follow you and struggle for a shared aspiration, you must describe a vivid picture of the future. Before the team decides to hop on the train and go along for the ride, they need to know where you’re taking them. They’d like some idea of what it will be like when they reach their final destination.
Inspiring A Shared Vision is one of the five practices of The Leadership Challenge. Studies show most leaders don’t spend enough time thinking about their vision. Why do you think that’s the case?
I was motivated to write this post after watching a video. Did you know it’s impossible to walk a straight line without a frame of reference in the distance? Here’s a mother, conducting a science project with her son. She was certain she’d be able to walk a straight line donning a blindfold. I’ve viewed a number of clips where people have attempted this experiment and the results are always the same. Take a look.
How about you? Do you carve out enough time in the day to envision your future? What’s worked, what hasn’t, and what have you learned? I’d like to hear your comments below.
Very nicely shared, and a very interesting point as well. It’s sometimes hard for people to take their blindfolds off, and I postulate that most people are afraid to do it because then they have to face up to certain realities that are tough to deal with. If you’re just someone hoping to get by in life then fine, but if you have dreams and aspirations, or if you’re in a position of leadership, it’s imperative that one breaks down, removes the blindfolds, and does what they’re supposed to do.
Nice video as well; makes a great point.
Lots of great points Mitch. Sometimes people are paralyzed about all the steps required to reach the goal instead of focusing on what’s right in front of them.
Hi Steve,
Thank you for sharing this, I struggle so much with a clear vision and direction, I get a glimpse of what I believe God is leading me to and many times it dissolves.
I waffle, change like a chameleon, pray for guidance, wisdom and then get busy trying to figure out the next way to bring cash flow in the doors of my business.
Its a constant struggle, under capitalized, fear, lack of vision and comittement to a purpose, a win here and there and then poof it’s gone and I have to start all over again.
Any suggestions? Thoughts?
Brian, many many many entrepreneurs go through this waffling process.
The key to creating a vision is finding your voice. This can take a while. Some get there faster than others.
Here’s a couple of thoughts:
A post I wrote a few weeks ago: http://endgamebusiness.com/blog/want-to-raise-your-game-hire-a-coach/
A video from a hugely successful CEO regarding the best piece of advice he ever received.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIiwAcnSN1g
Pick up the book “Soul Print” by Mark Batterson.
Feel free to reach out to me to discuss.
Steve, I just had to slip over from Michael Hyatt and see what you were talking about. Good illustration and excellent point.–Tom
Tom, thanks for taking a look see at the blindfold metaphor.
Steve, this was such an interesting article. I’ve done the blindfold experiment and had the same result as the video. This was a great way to connect vision and direction.
Thanks Maria. I like when I get ideas for blogs by seeing a photo or video.
I appreciate your comments.