The very first thing I teach my leaders is how to write and how to live their vision. Just writing a vision statement and hanging it on the wall is a waste of time.
A vision statement tells us where we're going, and living it means we focus on it every day. Microsoft says its vision is to enable people all over the world to achieve their potential. so every program Microsoft makes, every improvement to their system - is designed to stretch their customers to greater achievements. they live their vision every day at work.
But how about us? Companies are not the only ones who need a vision. We all need one. My wife's vision in 1980 was to transform downtown Forsyth into a business hub and she did it. Now her vision is to be a professional grandmother. My vision is to change all bosses into leaders. What's your vision?
What do you want to accomplish in your life? Write it down. Then look at it and ask this question: is what I'm doing right now helping me to achieve my goal? am I learning what I need to learn here? am I growing each year in knowledge and experience and wisdom --and in the skills I will need to fulfill my vision?
Leaders answer that question with a resounding "yes." Today, you can be a leader too, if you want to.