What Constitutes a Vision?

Before we proceed, let’s clarify what a vision truly is. According to one source, a vision is defined as:

vision (noun) 1. the ability to see. 2. the capacity to think about or plan the future with creativity or foresight. — Oxford Languages

Using the first definition, imagine navigating life without the ability to see. Most would deem that a bleak future.

Nonetheless, many individuals may lack eyesight yet possess a profound vision for their lives. A notable example is Helen Keller, who, despite being both blind and deaf, achieved more than many who can see and hear. She once stated:

“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” — Helen Keller (1880–1968)

Without a clear vision, where are you headed? Are you merely going through the motions? It’s akin to shooting an arrow into the sky with no target in sight—just be cautious not to stand directly beneath it!

Regrettably, countless individuals with sight fail to create a vision for their lives. Fortunately, you have choices and can take action!

Vision: Aligning Your Life

A personal vision not only helps you identify your direction but also does much more. Your vision can empower you to:

• Perceive life with intention
• Envision your ideal future
• Comprehend your likely path
• Formulate a strategy to reach your goals
• Clarify your identity, aspirations, and ultimate potential
• Make informed choices
• Reflect on those you wish to share your journey with
• Align your actions with the future you desire

“We become what we dream.” — Richard Boyatzis (1946-present)

Ultimately, when you can visualize the future you seek, you can articulate and project that vision into the world.

Your vision will serve as a compass, guiding your planning, actions, and future. If you grasp the significance of a personal vision, you’re ready to embark on this transformative journey.

As recorded in Proverbs nearly 3000 years ago, the reason a vision is vital is clear:

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” — Proverbs 29:18

Creating a vision for your life gives you a target to aim for. I recommend starting by outlining your personal vision for the next five years. Once you have clarity about your five-year goals, it becomes easier to extend that vision further into the future.

Establishing a Destination

As previously mentioned, having a destination in mind is preferable to wandering through life without purpose. Why squander valuable time when determining your aspirations can be straightforward? However, if you choose to let life drift, that’s your prerogative.

For those who take the initiative to create a personal vision, I suggest reviewing it at the beginning of each year to reaffirm and adjust as necessary.

If you realize your vision sooner than five years, that’s fantastic! By then, you may have already reshaped your vision anyway. You set the target to steer you forward, and it can be modified as needed. Remember, this is your vision—it's not about following someone else’s path.

A few concluding thoughts on your vision: clarity is far more important than length. The more clearly you can envision it, the more likely it is to materialize.

With whom should you share your vision? As I often emphasize, “life is about relationships.” Thus, it’s crucial to share your vision with someone close to you. Choose a person who can help keep you accountable in pursuing your vision, and they may even play a role in helping you fulfill it.

Imagine having someone who believes in you and is willing to invest in your vision! There is strength in unity. As Scripture states a significant truth:

“And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:12

Select those with whom you wish to share your vision, and take that step! Don’t forget to support them in finding and achieving their vision as well. The rewards for everyone involved will be immense!

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to approach this exercise with seriousness. If not for yourself, do it for the people you cherish in your life.

Remember, the vision you create is uniquely yours and can be anything you desire. Don’t impose limits on yourself. Dream big and trust that your vision will unfold as you navigate life. Aim high and strive to surpass your goals rather than settling for less.

Ultimately, the choices you make are yours alone, and only you bear the responsibility for the life you create. However, a bit of planning can yield substantial rewards! Keep in mind the wisdom of one of our founding fathers:

“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” — Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790)

Your life is far too significant to neglect planning! Don’t leave your future to chance. I challenge you to dream big, envision, take action, and build the life you desire!