“The very essence of leadership is that you have a vision. It’s got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can’t blow an uncertain trumpet.” – Theodore M. Hesburgh
One of the fundamental responsibilities of a leader is to have and constantly communicate the VISION. A vision has two primary functions for your team. Vision serves as a compass and as fuel for you and your team.
COMPASS: Vision determines values. Values are the fundamental beliefs and standards that drive behavior and decision-making. Leaders must always make sure that the team’s priorities and decisions are aligned with the vision. Multiple visions lead to division. Upholding the vision as the number one priority will keep you and your team on course. Vision is what directs the team. No vision, no direction.
FUEL: I’ve worked on leadership committees for many large events over the past few years. Most of these events are staffed by volunteers–sometimes as many as a couple hundred. Some events had a clear vision and objective. Some events didn’t. I’ve noticed a direct connection between clarity of vision and the response from the volunteers. The events with a clear vision that was effectively communicated to the volunteer team produced incredible results. The volunteers rallied around the vision, worked harder, were more enthusiastic about the event, and complained less. Vision is what kept the team going. “A vision that creates opportunity for OTHERS, will never lack the involvement of OTHERS. Vision is contagious!” – Brian Houston
A final thought… “Vision fades. So leaders must continually remind, refresh, and restate it–monthly in my experience.” – Rick Warren As a leader, you have the responsibility to keep the vision alive. Habitually talk about it with your team. Remind them “why” we do what we do.
“Where there is no vision the people perish.” – Proverbs 29:18