Much research has shown that organizations with sound and inspiring missions and visions do better in the marketplace. Sound missions and visions motivate and guide people on how to allot their time and how to make choices. As important as the vision, mission and strategy might be, communicating and managing them is even more critical. When faced with ongoing uncertainty and change. People look for something they can hold on to Believe in. Aspire toward. They want to know that what they do matters. That they’re contributing to something worthwhile. Larger than themselves. A sound purpose and inspiring vision-whether for an organization, team, project, or initiative-fuel commitment and unify efforts. People are more engaged when they understand how what they do connects to the big picture. They make better decisions when they know where they’re headed. They’re more resilient when setbacks occur, knowing they’re on the right path. To influence others to pursue a meaningful direction, create a vision of the future you want to achieve together. A future that captivates the group’s imagination. If that vision isn’t inspiring to you on a personal level, it won’t light any fires in others either. If you are passionate about the purpose, about closing the gap between current reality and the future you desire, you still need to find a way to ignite that passion in others. Shape and deliver a message that appeals to the core interests and values of your audience. But words alone aren’t enough. You need to demonstrate your commitment to the purpose and vision you espouse. This will inspire others to show their commitment as well.
Where there is no vision, the people perish.
– Proverbs 29:18
The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind him in other men the conviction
and the will to carry on.
– Walter Lippman