“Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe.” (Oprah Winfrey)
“A vision is not just a picture of what could be; it is an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more.” (Rosabeth Moss Kanter)
“Vision always precedes strategy.” (Michael Hyatt)
What exactly is a vision quest? Maddisen K. Krown writes that a vision quest is most commonly used as a rite-of-passage ceremony practiced by certain Native American cultures performed to mark significant life transitions or changes. Says Krown: “The vision quest can be a powerful way to acknowledge, mourn, release, welcome, and celebrate important life transitions of any kind. They give us the opportunity to turn changes into sacred initiations–empowering, humbling, strengthening, and enlightening us.”
I’m not suggesting that you take yourself into the woods without food, water, or GPS–although you can if you want to! More simply, I’m suggesting that you take an hour or two, maybe alone at poolside or sitting near the water’s edge at sunset, and envision your best self and your best life. Who do you want to be? What do you want to experience? What do you want to stand for or be known for? What contribution do you wish to make?
A clear vision helps you make better choices. It becomes your North Star or touchstone when your life gets too busy or stressful or unsatisfying. To get started, use these powerful and thought-provoking questions. Answer them honestly. It’s okay to want what you want. Own your choices and don’t censor yourself based on what other people might think.
1.What do I really, REALLY want and am I willing to put it out there?
2.What do I most value? (Freedom? Creativity? Achievement? Love? Connection?)
3.Am I playing a big enough game? (One that’s big and meaningful enough that it inspires me to begin each day ready to take action toward it.)
4.If I were at my best, what would I do (or change) right now?
5.Who do I need to become in order to live my vision?
6. What have I wanted to do but haven’t?
7.What is the decision I have been avoiding?
8.What am I settling for?
9.Where am I selling out on myself?
10.What am I willing to do to have what I want? Can I let go of what I’ve accomplished in order to move in a new direction that holds more meaning to me?
When all is said and done, this is your life. Give yourself permission to live your best life and be your best self. It all starts with a vision.
THIS WEEK’S CALL TO ACTION:
Take time to create a vision for your life. Write about it. Paint it. Create a vision board. Make it tangible so you can refer to it often. Commit to not making any significant life decisions until your vision is clear. And always remember that YOU BECOME WHAT YOU BELIEVE.
