Vision statements are tools businesses and other organizations use to succinctly convey their mission, values, and goals to employees, shareholders, and other parties.
The goal of a vision statement is to help the people involved in decision-making make decisions that align with it and the group’s overall purpose. They have proven valuable tools that help a company reach its goals without forgetting its values or purpose.
A personal vision statement is nearly identical to the one used for a business but is directed towards a single individual and their life. It encompasses one’s values, goals, and purpose in life. Sometimes it also includes a statement of the lifetime impact you wish to have on the world. Just remember that a personal vision statement is just that -personal. No two are the same, and many might not even be recognizable as examples of the same thing. Some will focus more on personal issues, and others more on career or spiritual issues.
Personal vision statements can encompass both personal and professional goals. They tend to be short, only a few sentences long, and can be either kept private or made public. Most people don’t share their personal vision statements with anyone or only with a few trusted people, such as a spouse or advisor, because they tend to include a list of some deeply held personal values.
Some of the world’s most successful and famous people use personal vision statements. Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey, and Mahatma Gandhi are examples of people who use personal vision statements to guide their lives. But you don’t have to be famous, a hero or a CEO to create and use your own personal vision statement. Many people do it. Millions of people worldwide in every walk of life, from students to farmers to artists, have a vision statement they use in their daily lives.
It takes some work to create your own personal vision statement and a little determination to follow it once you’ve done the work to create it. But in the end, you will have the added motivation and inspiration you need to guide you on your life’s journey.
