Why Vision Matters

In his June 2012 leadership blog, Michael Hyatt addresses the topic of vision and why it matters. In it he states, “When times are tough, vision is the first casualty.”

I hate to admit it, but I proved him correct. This is not only true for companies and organizations, but in one’s personal life too. It’s not intentional – it just sort of happens as a reaction to current events.

As a freelance Project Manager in the telecommunications industry, my contract ended in January of 2013. That was expected and planned for, but what was not expected is that my contract was not renewed. As a cost reduction move, the client decided to pull the services I provided back in-house and source them internally. Now, I am in a tough time, and sure enough – my vision took a back seat to “survival”.

I had forgotten the basic principle of what a vision is and its importance. “Vision is the lifeblood of any organization. It is what keeps it moving forward. It provides meaning to the day-to-day challenges and setbacks that make up the rumble and tumble of real life. Decisions become pragmatic” Michael states.

He’s right. Once I regained this perspective, I found new energy and purpose in drumming up new work. I went from survival mode to intentional mode in seeking out new opportunities. A vision serves as a compass, and I failed to take a bearing at the first sign of trouble. It’s always good to pause for a moment and assess your direction, then move forward. The vision tells you where and in what direction.

My vision is simple: “to be the difference that makes a difference in the lives of others”. This vision is an excellent compass for me; it qualifies and filters opportunities and makes decision-making easier when selecting the right contract. I might have all the skills in the world for a particular company, but if I do not believe I can be a difference that will make a difference to them, then it’s not for me. This significantly raises the bar above survival mode where the temptation to accept the first thing that comes along is at its greatest.

Staying true to my vision also keeps me authentic and consistent in my actions, which are also important leadership traits. As the leader of my family, its my job to remind them of what it is we are trying to build – and why it matters.  I echo Michael Hyatt’s words, “Before conditions can improve, [vision] is the first thing we must recover.”

Question: How important do you think vision is as we move through the rest of this year?