If you’re a leader, you understand the importance of vision casting. You frequently have to remind those you lead why they do what they do.
You remind them of how every task, no matter how seemingly insignificant, ties back to the vision of your organization. It’s Leadership 101.
You’ve likely worked hard to develop the skill of vision casting. Great leaders are masters of this art, but…
How Good Are You at Vision Casting to Yourself?
During my career journey thus far, there have been numerous seasons when I forgot the importance of remembering the vision myself.
I took for granted the need to remember the “why” behind the “whats.”
I didn’t exactly forget the vision. If you asked me, I would rattle it off by rote. But while my head remembered, sometimes my heart forgot. I got busy doing the what of my work and slowly found my heart disconnecting.
Have you ever been there?
As leaders, you’re less likely to have others consistently remind you of the “Why.” More commonly, you’ll get pestered with questions rather than encouragement–unless you know where to look.
Keep your head and your heart connected to your “why” by creating ways to cast the vision to yourself repeatedly.
3 Ways to Cast Vision to Yourself
1) Prayer. The demands on your leadership often make extended prayer time feel like a luxury you can’t afford. This is the easiest way for our hearts to disconnect from the vision and purpose God has called us to live out. Don’t neglect the amazing gift of spending time with and hearing from God.
2) Stories. Whether it’s a story that you heard from someone impacted by your work or an email from someone saying thank you or telling you your impact mattered, let each story be a reminder of the power of God’s vision in action.
I keep a file on my computer for emails and stories that I’ve received. On the days when I struggle to find significance in my work, a quick read of these stories reconnects me with the heart and the impact of the work we do.
3) Mentors. You need people you can go to on the dark days. These might be other leaders, co-workers, or friends, but they need to be people who know how to re-inspire you with the truth. Beware! They’re likely to regurgitate your own words back to you, but that’s okay, it’s probably exactly what you need to hear.
The vision isn’t going to burn brightly every day.
Some days it will feel like a flicker, but acknowledge that flicker and create ways to help you reignite your “why.”
That will set you apart as a leader!
Keep leading well!
Jenni Catron and The 4Sight Group
Jenni Catron is a writer, speaker, and leadership coach who consults churches and non-profits to help them lead from their extraordinary best. She speaks at conferences and churches nationwide, seeking to help others develop their leadership gifts and lead confidently. As Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she consults with individuals and teams on leadership and organizational health.
Jenni is the author of several books, including Clout: Discover and Unleash Your God-Given Influence and The 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership.
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