Vision: ˈvɪʒ(ə)n/
1. the faculty or state of being able to see. 2. the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom. Vision is essential if you want to go anywhere. Vision can simply mean sight – can you see where you want to go but it should mean so much more, if you are in business you should have the sort of vision that leaves you daydreaming about what could be. The problem with most of us is that we started our business with excitement and vision but then got so busy that we lost the time to dream or imagine. At the Women’s Business Club we have a lot of vision! We dream of being the #1 ‘go to’ organisation for businesswomen in the UK. Our passion is to do whatever we can to connect, support and empower businesswomen. Crazy schemes of what we can do often come up, some get shelved for the future and some get implemented, some work and some fail so we try again. Our vision though is clear, we want to support businesswomen.
Vision keeps you focused
Having a vision is essential to keeping you on track and focused. If you just make it up as you go along and don’t really know where you would like to end up then you are likely to end up anywhere. Creating to and sticking to a vision for 20 or more years is what it takes to build a great business. Changing your direction and your desired end result too often will put you right back at the start of that 20 years, so think carefully before giving up on what you have already started.
Vision keeps you passionate
Your vision is a constant reminder of why you started. It will communicate what was and is important to you so when things get tough or boring you stay inspired. Without passion business can be really dull, so keep stirring up your passion, keep believing in your vision and make sure others are passionate and believe in it too.
Writing your Vision
You written business vision doesn’t need to be boring business jargon, in fact, it shouldn’t be boring at all. There are so many ways that you can write it. For example, if you have a team, why not take some time out together and brainstorm. You may be pleasantly surprised by the synergy and you could also learn a great deal about how they view your business. You could also have a vision for each element of your business plan, e.g.
- A vision for your customers
- A vision for your staff
- A vision for your finances
Your Vision Statement
Not only should you have a clear vision for your future but you should have a short and concise vision statement for your business. Create a vision statement that captures the essence of what is important to you as a business. This vision statement should clearly express your long-term business goals. It should also answer the fundamental question, ‘Where are we going?”. Use your vision statement to paint a clear picture for both your team and your customers about where your business is going. A vision statement should be memorable or even catchy. As your business grows, you should use your vision statement to measure your progress. It can also guide you in making business decisions, if it doesn’t fit in with your vision then it shouldn’t be considered.
If you would like help with your vision please discuss it in our Facebook group or buy yourself one of our Vision Maps to help you find your way. Enjoy the journey – bon voyage!