Why don't you have a written vision? Seven simple steps to writing one
Reading time 4 minutes
by Mary Boza Crimmins
“Vision is a picture of the future that produces passion.” (Bill Hybels) A written vision is not just for business owners; it is an empowering way for YOU to take advantage of each day’s 86,400 seconds. If you have a written vision, it’s time to reevaluate it. If you don’t, no worries.
Here are seven simple steps to writing AND implementing your vision.
STEP 1 - FIND A QUIET PLACE
Go someplace where you can work without interruption. Turn off your phone and have your supplies - charged laptop or paper and pen.
STEP 2 - WRITE, WRITE, WRITE
Don’t stop to proofread. Don’t worry about grammar or organization. Include how you envision every aspect of your life because we don’t live life in compartments. Each area affects the other. I used the categories listed in The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington: financial, spiritual, mental, relational, personal, professional, and physical. Address each of these parts of your life specifically. Remember, you are writing what comes to mind. Don’t stop to second-guess, doubt, reflect or edit.
What is your overall vision for your life?
What are the motivations behind your vision? Why is this vision important to you?
What will you need to give up to live this vision?
How will your life change?
Who in your life will be affected by your vision (these are the people you must share your vision with)?
What is the vision of your work life?
What character traits do you want to convey?
STEP 3 - SET IT ASIDE
Once you have completed your draft, put your vision away for a day or two. When you return to it, read it aloud and tweak it. I prefer a hard copy.
STEP 4 - ORGANIZE
Now organize your vision into these categories:
Financial
Spiritual
Mental
Relational
Personal
Professional
Physical
Some ideas may fall into more than one category. Go ahead and list them under each relevant category. For example, I want to be helpful, respected, humble, and faithful, which falls under my personal, professional, relational, and spiritual sections.
STEP 5 - SHARE
Now for the challenging but crucial part. You must share your vision with those you do life with. After all, they will be directly affected by any changes you want to make. Print a hard copy and let them read the vision before you discuss it. Be specific about what you need from them, which may differ from what you want. You need their thoughtful consideration, questions, suggestions, and objections. Be prepared for compromise, feedback, and pushback.
STEP 6 - SHARE AGAIN
Next, share your vision with someone who can provide wise counsel but has no vested interest in your success, such as an accountability partner or mentor. Be willing to hear hard truths.
STEP 7 - REFINE AND DISPLAY
Now, refine your vision. Print it. Post it (not on social media). Display it where you will see it daily. Read it every morning. Stay focused. If you make changes to your vision, consult with your life partners. You need their buy-in, but again be willing to listen to their concerns.
PUT YOUR VISION TO REALITY
Remember, “you may not be where you want to be or do what you want to do when you’re on the journey. But you’ve got to be willing to have vision and foresight that leads you to an incredible end.” (Usher) For your vision to be effective in moving towards your goals, it must be written and revisited.
Now that you have your written vision. It’s time to do your best to live it. There will be moments and days when you’ll miss your mark, and that’s o.k. Yet, the simple habit of reading your vision each morning is an effective antidote to discouragement, wandering, and dissatisfaction. In the words of Bob Marley, “Don’t bury your thoughts; put your vision to reality. Wake up and live!”
BIG IDEAS, short reads
This blog is the third and final BIG IDEAS, short reads for the 2023 Healthy Reminders Collection. If you enjoyed these, leave a comment. If you have suggestions, leave a comment.
