Vision and Purpose

Talk Notes by Viv Thomas

What are your major passions?

What would you like written on your tombstone?

Definition of Vision

Vision can be defined as the ‘perception of possibilities’ ‘The succinct philosophy that defines where an organisation wishes to go’ (Pocket MBA: Economist Books), ‘The ability or faculty of perceiving with the eye, an image conjured up vividly in the imagination, the ability to perceive what is likely and plan wisely for it’ (Chambers 21st Century Dictionary)

Three Elements of Leadership

1. The establishing of a vision
2. Ability to communicate the vision effectively to others
3. Ability to inspire trust and build relationships

Vision: the Mother of Strategy – the story of Nehemiah

How does this vision emerge in the Story of Nehemiah?

1) Emotional Reality
Nehemiah’s emotional and task world collide
Confusion is the environment of vision development
Sadness and depression are strategically effective in this story

2) Lived Prayer
Quality vision is lived prayer
Vision comes out of being in trouble
Nehemiah is troubled but focused

3) Detailed Observation
Visionary leaders allow the task to overwhelm them
Visionary leaders do not just see they observe and perceive
Silence is selected so he may truly listen
He moves from his internal world into this world of action.

Three aspects of Vision Development

1. Observe
2. Reflect
3. Act

We often think of leadership in terms of action, but the other two are fundamental.

To be communicated, the vision has to be expressed in a purpose, the object or aim in doing something.

How do you see your vision being explained on your tombstone?

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