Vision

I am sure somewhere in your professional or educational experiences you have heard the term vision. In fact, nearly all businesses, schools, and organizations have a vision statement to guide them. “Having a vision, as well as being able to energize followers to join in the effort for making that vision a reality, involves credibility, communication skills, and the ability to maintain momentum and creativity” (Grossman, 2009, p75).

…but what is a vision?

• A vision is an image of where an organization would like to be in the future.
• A vision is different than a goal in the fact that it is broader and does not focus on a greater return on assets.
• Personal visions provide purpose in one’s life, whereas a professional vision helps accomplish work ideas and the mission of an organization.
• Vision is a catalyst for change
• Vision unleashes energy
• A vision is the embodiment of core beliefs

”Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision passes the time. Vision and action can change the world.” –Joel Barker

Recently I read an article on the relationship between vision and strategy. In the article, Michael Hyatt describes vision as the “what” and strategy as the “how”. If we don’t first have the “what” (vision), then our “how” (strategy) is non-effective. In other words, it is important to first determine your vision for moving forward so that you can then effectively develop a strategy for actualizing that vision. 

Developing a vision does not only apply to leadership and management roles!  Creating a personal vision sets a framework for personal and professional development in all future roles, activities, and locations.

How to develop a vision:  

• Think first about your past
• Determine what you want
• Write an article about how you’ve made a difference
• Write a short vision statement
• Act on your intuition
• Test your assumptions
• Become a futurist
• Rehearse with visualizations and affirmations

I encourage you to take some time and develop a vision for yourself, your practice, and your field!

Grossman, S. & Valiga, T. (2009). The new leadership challenge: creating the future of nursing. F.A. Davis Company. Philadelphia, PA.