A vision is not just a picture of what could be, it's an appeal to our better self!

Last week we said a vision is not just a picture of what could be, it's an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more. Finding purpose within your vision is the most important aspect of your life. It answers the question of "what is my purpose? Why am I here?"

We also covered how your vision can provide clarity of purpose. In understanding vision, we know that your vision is born from within. It is shaped by priorities, values, and ingrained dreams for your life's work. We can now discover the tools that will define the creation of your vision and how to turn your vision into action.

Let's start this process by asking the question, have you ever considered writing a personal vision statement? What is a personal vision statement you ask? It is a succinct statement of your goals and dreams for the future. Anchored in values and beliefs, it centers on your purpose in life despite adversities that may pull you in various directions. The process of writing a personal vision statement can be quite inspiring, especially if you frame it and hang it someplace where you can refer to it often. Much like you see when you walk in various businesses that have posted their mission statement, mounting your vision statement where it can be easily seen creates accountability to yourself to execute your vision. If you create a vision statement, write it down and post it to be seen regularly, you are more likely to apply the principles that identify your vision, and set your goals. And studies have found that when you write out vision, goals, and plans, you are twice as likely to experience success as those who only thought about goals. 

Writing a personal vision statement begins by simply putting thoughts on paper. Without preconceived limitations or judgments, simply ask yourself the following questions...

1. What are my strengths?
2. What do I need to improve upon?
3. What do I consider to be my core values?
4. How do my values guide interactions with friends, family, and co-workers?
5. What makes me jump out of bed and energized to start my day?
6. What are some goals I would like to pursue?

Write down everything that comes to mind. Then, review your notes. What stands out to you? This could be your trigger point in creating your vision. You should strive to keep your personal vision statement as concise as possible, no more than a paragraph or two. This way when you frame and mount it on the wall it's easy to review frequently.

Next, consider a vision board. A vision board is a physical display filled with images, words, and symbols that motivate or inspire you. The concept is that when looking at your board, it triggers positive thoughts that drive your vision. There is power in visualizing your success and a good vision board can help create a positive image in your mind and confidence in your ability to achieve your goals. Create your vision board in a few easy steps...

1. Clarify your vision and goals.
2. Determine deadlines for your goals. 
3. Create a plan to reach your goals. 
4. Find images and objects that match your vision.
5. Arrange the materials you gathered on your board according to the steps in your plan.
6. Use motivational quotes or memes to inspire your steps on the board. 
7. Keep your vision board where you can refer to it regularly.

Although a good vision board can be the mechanism to move your vision into action, it alone cannot drive the commencement of action. You will need to apply some basic principles. You've probably heard these principles before. In fact, we've probably covered these principles in previous articles.

First you must have a positive mindset. As we've said, mindset is everything. Having the proper mindset will allow you to experience growth through the process and embracing change will be an opportunity for improvement.

Secondly, you have your vision and plan in place, and now you must put in the hard work to see your plan through to fruition. Success is rarely achieved overnight. You must be dedicated and disciplined in your pursuit of your goals.

And finally, if you're using a vision board, you know that there are steps along the way. With each successful step you should celebrate the milestones you've accomplished along the way. Celebrating the small wins builds toward the bigger, ultimate win of reaching your goal. You must be able to execute all phases of your plan using these principles, regardless of any obstacles that block your path. Be persistent in your efforts and stay focused on the outcome!

Focus your imagination. Envision your future to be wildly successful. And create your vision, because without it, there is no hope.

Be inspired! Inspire others!