“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” – Helen Keller
Are you ready for an awesome vision!
No, not the peyote or Ayahuasca ceremony type of vision.
I’m talking about a written vision statement of your future.
A defined statement of the type of work and life you want to live.
A vision statement is a vivid idealized description of a desired outcome that inspires, energizes and helps you create a mental picture of your target.
If you’re going to do something remarkable you need a remarkable vision.
If you’re going to follow a life of passion and purpose, there needs to be a vision illuminating the path.
“Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become. Your Vision is the promise of what you shall one day be. Your Ideal is the prophecy of what you shall at last unveil.” – James Allen
Vision gives direction
A vision is the light house that guides us toward our desired future.
Without a vision we end up rudderless, like a ship at the mercy of the waves and blustery storms.
Strategic goals come from having a clear vision.
We need to establish a vision that drives our mission and goals.
Once you have a vision you can create the steps to make it happen.
“A goal is not always meant to be reached, it often serves simply as something to aim at.” ― Bruce Lee
Vision grows discipline
Vision helps us stay disciplined because we aren’t sucked into the whirlwind of life’s endless to-do list.
We can get clear about the best way invest our time and energy.
We stop grasping at whatever is attractive in the moment because we know what’s most important to focus on.
An inspiring vision, one we’re passionate about, helps us push through the resistance and persevere through obstacles.
Vision gives us intention
Why do you do the work you do?
What’s the purpose?
Without a vision it can feel like we’re just going through the motions.
How many people do you know who’ve stayed the exact same over the past 10 years?
They gotten older and lived longer, but they’re in the same situation, doing the same thing, and have stopped evolving.
They aren’t being intentional about what they’re working toward.
“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.” – Benjamin Franklin.
How intentional have you been about creating a vision?
Does your vision push you to be a better person? To help you think bigger? To be inspired? To think more creatively?
If not, it’s time to reignite your vision.
How to create your ideal vision statement
There are numerous ways to create a vision statement.
This by no means the best or correct way, it’s just what’s helped me in the past.
The important thing is to have a compelling and bold vision.
A vision you deeply connect with, one that stirs your soul and radiates your spirit.
No matter how crazy it feels or sounds at the time, unbound your imagination and create a vision that strikes you at your core.
Michelangelo said, “The biggest threat for many of us is not that our goals are too high and we might miss them, but they are too low and we may reach them.”
The 3 pillars of your vision statement
1. Core-Identity – Who am I?
This includes your values, strengths, and the personal characteristics you admire.
Reflection questions:
– Who do you want to become at the end of your life?
– What qualities do you want to grow and develop?
– What does this show you about what’s most important to you?
2. Aspirations – What do I want?
This includes your dreams, passions, and desires. The lifestyle you want, the work you do, and the relationships surrounding you.
Reflection questions:
– What do you want to achieve before your life is over?
– What’s the one most important thing you want to achieve before you die?
– What would you be doing to wake up feeling alive and invigorated about your day?
3. Contribution – How can I serve?
We all want to be a part of something greater and make a difference. This comes from a self-chosen personal mission. Your mission is the life purpose you’re burning to say yes to.
Reflection questions:
– What changes do I want to see in the world?
– What legacy do I want to leave?
– How will I leave the world a better place?
Be willing to dream big
In early 2014, when I committed to the pursuit of being a drummer and full-time coach, this is the vision I conceived. It has helped me grow courage, faith, and determination to move in the direction of my dreams.
March 2014: Vision Statement
“I am a sponsored professional drummer touring throughout the world. As I tour I coach people as a life-transformation coach helping them create and live the life of their dreams. I help them fall in love with life, and pursue their passions and deepest desires. People want to work with me, and my clients are dedicated to living an inspired, purposeful, and extraordinary life; one where they give back and make the world a better place. I am an honorable leader and role model, showing that anyone can live the life they desire. I share my story as a public speaker and help others uncover their life mission and purpose. I also have a creative and understanding wife whom supports this mission and vision. I have one healthy and beautiful child. This is my life as of January 11, 2019.”
When I created this vision two years ago, it was right at the edge of my perceived possibilities. It felt a little radical and crazy, but didn’t quite cross the line or dumbfound my unconscious mind.
It was a statement that sparked an inner-flame in my soul. My connection to it was palpable, it brought tears to my eyes, and I knew it was the picture of the life I wanted to live.
If you notice, there is not mention of You Have a Calling in that vision. This community became an intention after knowing what my vision and mission was.
YHAC became an objective in service of a larger vision.
To propel your life forward, create your version of an epic vision statement.
Send me a message or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear what you come up with.
Photo credit: Anita Ritenour
