Recasting The Vision Revitalizes The Team
“The greatest leaders mobilize others by coalescing people around a shared vision.”
As I think about what September 11th now means to our country due to the horrific events of that day in 2001, I take pause and pray for those whose lives changed abruptly by either being personally involved, injured,fatally wounded, or had loved ones who were involved. This event changed so much in this country about how we operate and deal with the rest of the world. However, the vision of America is still clear to most Americans. To form a more perfect union, provide individual freedoms and the pursuit of happiness. I am thankful for that. The vision is the rallying point and must be recast and replayed, especially in times such as 9/11.
That being said, organizations can go through patches of trauma and challenges. Or they can go through times when they are just stuck!
It is in these times that it is imperative to recast the vision to make sure that everyone stays focused on where we are going in the long run, in spite of short term obstacles and roadblocks. Here are a few trick for recasting and reminding the team of the vision:
- Recognize the situation for what it is. If there are some steep climbs to make or large obstacles in the way of progress, acknowledge them. Address what needs to be done to overcome them in the light of the vision. In other words, don’t ignore them but address them.
- Recognize the achievements of individuals and the team as a whole in working towards the vision. Encourage the team to keep getting those wins and strides towards the ultimate vision.
- Use the vision to eliminate activities that are not taking the organization closer to the vision. Ask the question “Does this action bring us closure to our vision or not?” If not, then redirect.
- Re-imagine how it will be when the team reaches the vision. Describe the emotions that will be connected with that arrival. Define what it will mean to all of the different stakeholders specifically and how lives will be changed to the better because of this achievement.
Recasting the vision is simply making sure you and your team are still on track and heading towards the vision.
Happy Recasting!
