Overcoming Apathy with the Power of Vision

The creative power of imagination is unique to humankind, and it has a purpose. There is significant, creative power in the ability to imagine your ideal future. This ability is referred to as vision.


You can benefit from the power of vision by using your imagination to build internal motivations that are stronger than the comfort zone of security. Vision counterbalances the forces of apathy by building a picture of the ideal future. This picture of the ideal future fuels progressive, internal motivations, which in turn generate drive and focus.


I have observed that most people will quit just short of their desired outcome if their mind is limited by lack of vision. Clear vision is the key to a full, dynamic, and abundant future. Without a driving, inspirational vision, planning is reduced to nothing more than an uninspired to-do list. Vision places the compelling "why" behind what you do.


I suggest the following five-step system to enhance your use of the power of vision to combat apathy:


·Step #1 - Start and keep an ongoing dream list. Make a list of wishful goals that you have always wanted to accomplish and update it annually. Take off the judge's robe and let your imagination run free. We attract for ourselves that which we set out for ourselves. What we see is what we get.


·Step #2 - Write a vision statement. Write a clear description of your ideal future, as if you are already there, five to 10 years into the future. You should be somewhat realistic, but be careful not to limit your potential. This description should express your heart and soul.


·Step #3 - Set annual goals. Your three to five annual goals should move you closer to your vision, and your goals should always be driven from vision. Each year review your dream list and set specific, measurable goals. Ask yourself, "What can I realistically accomplish this year that will move me closer to my vision?"


·Step #4 - Review your vision statement. Review your vision statement annually and make revisions. Your evaluation should always be about how compelling the vision is, never how realistic it is. That compelling vision then drives your daily actions and behaviors.


·Step #5 - Share your vision statement. With a mentor, share your vision statement and ask him or her to hold you accountable. Many people are afraid of accountability because it requires commitment. Commitment puts the reality of your vision on the line. But if you resist accountability for your commitments, you trade the drive of an inspiring vision for the fear of commitment.


The power of vision keeps you moving toward a passionate vision for tomorrow rather than settling into a comfort zone of security today. What you see is what you get!