Envision the Future: Bring Your Leadership Vision to Life
- Kristi Duvall
- Nov 14, 2024
- 4 min read
This is the third blog in the series on the "S" in the SPARK Method: Set a Vision. To recap the first two blog posts, the first step is to reflect on your values to clarify your purpose. Next, align your personal and professional values with that purpose.
Currently, many companies are struggling due to economic uncertainties. While there is optimism, there is also significant apprehension. As you embark on this next step to envision success for the year ahead, it's equally important to reflect on what went well this year. Recognize the impacts you, your team, and your company made. This reminds me of Marshall Goldsmith's book, "What Got You Here Won't Get You There."
The Power of Visioning: I've stood on the tee at the golf course many times. One of my worst habits is taking my eye off the ball and lifting my body, making a big swing and missing the ball. During a tournament many years ago, I was clearly struggling. My golf partner stopped me before I took another swing. He asked me to close my eyes and visualize success—gripping the club, posture, footing, pulling the club back, and swinging through to strike the ball and see it land on the green. This simple exercise worked. I still remember his voice and seeing the ball land gently on the green.
Envisioning Your Leadership Success: Now, you try. Visualize success through the next year. What will be the impact of your leadership in the next year? What needs to change? If you, your leadership style, your team, and your company continue on the current path, what does that look like one year from now?
It can be easy to jump to thoughts of the people and policies that need to change. Instead, focus on what YOU can change about your leadership.
Action Steps:
Reflect on the impacts and accomplishments you had this year: What are you most proud of for you, your team, and your company this past year? This is even easier if you routinely write down your goals quarterly.
Envision the future state of your team and organization: Imagine the positive changes and achievements you want to see in the next year.
Identifying Gaps and Needs: Assess the current state of your team. Are roles clearly defined for the road ahead? Just because they have worked thus far doesn't mean they will continue to do so. It may be time to reassess and adjust. Does everyone have the skills and ability to execute in this new landscape?
It can be challenging to evaluate those on your team with whom you've built long-standing and sometimes personal relationships. Remember, a leader needs to look at the needs of the business. Decisions resulting from this process can affect many more individuals than just you or your team. Your company or department could be at stake.
Is everyone in the right role?
Do new roles need to be created?
Do roles need to be eliminated?
If key employees do not have the skills, are they willing to learn and adapt? Do they want the changes that come with new responsibilities or dynamics?
Yes, these conversations can be daunting. However, when communicating with clarity, authenticity, and purpose, most people will appreciate the candor. It's when avoidance of conflict rears its ugly head that tension builds. Remember, clear is kind.
If yes, that's great:
What investments will you need in training?
How will you reinforce the training or new skills?
If not, there are options:
Do they see an opportunity where their skills could be of value?
Do you see where they may fit into an existing role to maximize
Bringing the Vision into View: When I was promoted to VP of Sales, we had regional sales teams. It was disjointed, and every branch did its own thing. Generally, we were on the same page, but there were many special exceptions in every region. For the company to scale, it was critical to create standards. It began with setting a vision.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was resistance to change. Many team members were comfortable with the status quo and hesitant to adopt new standards. I had to navigate these challenges with patience and persistence.
There were also moments of self-doubt. I remember many instances where I missed critical communications, leading to confusion and frustration among the team. Those were valuable lesson in the importance of clear and consistent communication.
Throughout this journey, I was fortunate to have the support of a coach and mentors who provided guidance and encouragement. Their insights were invaluable in helping me stay focused on my vision.
Despite the obstacles, we achieved significant milestones. We successfully aligned our management team, standardized processes, and improved overall efficiency. These achievements were a testament to the power of a clear vision and collaborative effort.
Now, it's your turn to bring your vision into view. Reflect on the challenges, leverage support, celebrate milestones, and stay committed to your vision. The journey may be tough, but the rewards are worth it.
Comments