Vision is an Action Word
A vision for your business / career is more than a picture in your mind; it is the catalyst for every action you take. Once you are clear about the end game, you can begin planning and executing specific activities to turn your imagined goals into reality.
Having a clear image of where you’re going will naturally draw you to the results you seek. Not only will you have focus, you will have the language to share your dream with others. As a result, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by people and resources that become attracted to and engaged in your vision. As Joseph Campbell said, “Don’t be afraid to follow your bliss, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be.”
Questions to Consider
To define your vision, take time to step away from the busy-ness of everyday life and ask yourself the following questions. Whether you write down your answers or just ponder them, this exercise can be a powerful tool.
1. What do you want?
Imagine what success looks like for you. What do you want to achieve? Be as specific and descriptive as possible, but don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers right now.
2. How will it feel to make this picture a reality? What will it make possible in your life?
Imagine that you’ve achieved your goals. Put yourself into that future place. How will you feel? More secure? Accomplished? Independent?
What else will follow? An upgrade in your living situation? A move to a city with better schools? Awards and notoriety in your field? The freedom to travel?
3. What is one concrete action you can take now to advance your goal? What obstacles may get in your way, and how will you overcome them?
Again, be specific and choose an action that is truly doable. (Read Tackling To-Do’s for tips on brainstorming, prioritizing and selecting goals.) Now, be just as detailed and descriptive about the obstacles you face as you were in selecting an action step. If you know the challenges that lie ahead, you are better prepared to face them.
Moving into Focus
Now, look back on your responses. Which questions were difficult to answer? Which elements of your future picture are a bit fuzzy? Can you visualize exactly what you want, only to get stuck when choosing your first action or identifying potential obstacles?
As you move forward, discuss your vision with anyone who will listen-friends, colleagues, a mentor, veteran business owners or a professional coach. Their feedback will help you refine your goals. They also may have a resource to help you achieve your objectives. Over time, as you speak with more people, your end game will become more refined and you will be drawn closer to your ultimate goal.
If you find it difficult to imagine what you want or to see past potential barriers to success, let’s talk. Call me at 510.864.0249 or email me to schedule a complimentary consultation and sample coaching session.
~~~~~~~~
About Merideth Mehlberg and Fresh Perspective Coaching
Merideth Mehlberg, founder of Fresh Perspective Coaching, helps her clients move towards new direction and meaning in their work, their businesses and their lives. She encourages her clients to dream big, and then she provides the compassion, insight, structure and support they need to transform their vision into reality.
Subscribe to Perspectives
- Articles to inspire positive change in work and everyday life
- Tips and exercises to support goals
- A calendar of helpful classes and presentations
