“Strategic planning is worthless—unless there is first a strategic vision.”
John Naisbitt
Let’s get real—how often do you stop and think about your vision? Not your next project or goal, but the deep, defining questions: Where are you headed? Why does it matter?
Vision isn’t fluff. It’s the map that turns strategy into progress. Planning without vision is like plotting a route with no destination—it wastes time, energy, and ultimately leads to frustration.
Take a moment to reflect:
- Where do you want to be in 10 years? Three years? One year?
- What’s driving you toward that future?
- Why does it matter—to you, your family, your team?
When you get crystal clear on these questions, the how of strategic planning falls into place. Vision grounds your efforts in purpose and direction.
Anchoring Strategy to Vision
Vision is what moves leadership from transactional to transformational. It’s not just about executing tasks—it’s about creating something meaningful.
If you’re looking to refine your ability to lead with vision, check out these resources:
- The Vision Driven Leader by Michael Hyatt. Hyatt breaks down how to craft a vision that inspires and galvanizes action.
- Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan. This classic highlights the importance of tying vision to tangible outcomes.
- The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander (). This book helps you think beyond constraints and see the possibilities that vision can unlock.
- The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. A must-read for leaders focusing on long-term, purpose-driven goals rather than short-term wins.
What’s Your Vision?
The process of defining a clear vision takes time, but it’s essential. Without it, you’re left reacting to circumstances instead of creating them. Your vision gives you the power to inspire others, focus your actions, and lead with conviction.
So, what’s next? Define your why and where, and then let strategy serve as the tool to move you forward. Vision transforms leadership into a meaningful journey, one that you and those you lead will be proud to take.
