“A vision is not just a picture of what could be; it is an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more.”
– Rosabeth Moss Kanter
Every one of us on this earth has the ability to tap into their personal power and create the epic life that they desire and deserve.
A life of epic success!
It all begins with that simple but important million-dollar question we all asked ourselves at one time or the other, for example; why are we here? What is it that I want? What’s the purpose of my being? Where do I see myself in life?
Having a vision is what drives and directs us in life. A clear vision is what we want to achieve in order to become who we want to be. Vision is more important than goals. In fact, we should have a vision first before setting goals. Creating a vision puts meaning behind your goals Many people are confused between what a vision and a goal is. Too many of us go around setting goals without having a clear vision. We set ourselves a goal without a higher purpose – when that goal is reached, we don’t know what else to do next which can be demotivating.
What exactly is vision? According to the dictionary, vision is defined as, “the act of power of imagination.” Vision gives direction and a glimpse over our life to make our goals and purpose become a reality. . Vision serves as a guide and can be used to provide a sense of purpose. “A vision is a way to answer your own “why” of life. It gives you the reason for your actions, choices, hopes, and desires. This fills your daily activities with meaning and purpose.”
Vision is knowing who you are (your purpose), knowing where you’re going (your picture of the future), and knowing the principles you need to guide your journey (your values).
Think of vision as your North Star, guiding you every step of the way and providing you direction whenever you get lost in the busyness of life.
Vision gives you clarity for the future while directing your attention to the present. On the contrary, the lack of vision prevents you from achieving success or significance in life.
In order to understand where we want ourselves to be in life, we must have a clear vision over our life. So, once you understand that vision clarifies purpose, life will become simpler and more meaningful. It’s so important to have vision and purpose because; it actually controls and makes our decisions, which ultimately creates our lifestyle.
The biggest problem with a lot of people is that most of them lack a burning, empowering, and exciting vision which is the reason why most people quit their goals before they even start. People who have a clear and exciting vision are always focused and driven.
So, if you are serious about living your epic dream life, the one where you get to live your life on your terms, them the first step is to create a vision. Are you ready to jump in?
Creating a vision is important! By creating your vision, you lay the foundation for designing your life intentionally and with purpose. Your vision is the big picture you are working to create, and from that vision you are able to create a road map by setting goals that will make your vision a reality.
Having a clear vision and well-defined goals are both critical for individuals and organizations to achieve success and make progress toward their desired outcomes. While vision provides the overarching direction and purpose, goals provide the specific targets and actionable steps to achieve that vision. Vision inspires and motivates, while goals provide a framework for planning, execution, and measurement.
The difference between Goals and Vision
Goals – An Overview
A goal is a specific target to achieve something. It includes the strategies and tactics you use to move toward your vision. You should set and achieve goals only that promote and are in alignment with your vision. This is why, if you don’t have a vision, goals alone can be defeating (i.e., without a vision, each goal is just something you’ve completed without a larger “why” in mind).
Examples of goals:
- To lose 10 pounds
- To save for a down payment on a house
- To start your own business
- To get out of debt
Vision – An Overview
Vision is your why. Vision gives direction. It’s your desired future. Your vision includes what you believe in (your core values) and what you want in your future (what you want to be). It’s the powerful reason why you want to do something; your overarching purpose. Your vision is your passion and keeps you excited and motivated. It’s what inspires you to do whatever it is you want to do.
For money, business or career, your vision may be very specific. For your life and relationships, your vision may be broader. In either case, your vision should be clear because it is the foundation on which you build.
To create a vision, begin by identifying your core values, your passions, what you believe to be your purpose, and how you envision your life. From there, be more specific and remember to be clear. Your vision should embody your values and your view of the future without being too generic. Your vision can also change over time. The point is to have one so you know why you are doing what you do, and you are happier doing it. The same process applies when you are creating a vision for any other aspect of your life, such as your career or business.
Examples (that match the goals from above):
- To live a healthy, well-balanced life
- To provide a happy, loving home for your family in a safe environment
- To help people ____________ (insert whatever problem your business is aimed at helping solve)
- To be free from financial “slavery”
Creating a vision is important! By creating your vision, you lay the foundation for designing your life intentionally and with purpose. Your vision is the big picture you are working to create, and from that vision you are able to create a road map by setting goals that will make your vision a reality.
I will highlight and break down three simple reasons having vision is important to your success and happiness:
- Overcome Setbacks – Challenges are inevitable. When you run into a wall or a hurdle, you need to know which way to go. Vision provides you with something to look forward to and always work towards. It provides you with a reason to keep going, even when the times get tough.
- Validate Your Goals – Having a vision places a purpose on your goal-setting activities. Without an end goal or destination in mind, then you won’t have a clear or defined path. Having vision helps provides this. To achieve your goal, you can start by setting small, attainable goals as stepping stones. Each little bit of success will help to continue pushing you forward on your bigger journey.
- Add Focus – Having a vision ensures that your life or business goals can remain focused. When you are faced with a decision or distraction, you can ask yourself if it will help or hurt you in attaining your vision. This can offer you the means to move forward with intention and alignment.
“When you have a vision that is strong enough and powerful enough, nothing can stand in your way.”
Lewis Howes
Creating a vision may seem difficult, but it is definitely worth it. After you know what your vision is, creating goals that are in line with your vision will come more naturally. Instead of feeling incomplete when you accomplish a goal, you will consider your higher purpose, which will leave you happier overall because you’ll have your “why” in mind.