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Are You a Visionary Business Leader?

Image representing Steve Jobs as depicted in C...What does it mean to be a visionary business leader?

Vision in business requires that you clearly see where you choose to be in future and formulate the necessary steps to get your organization there. Creating and sustaining a vision for an organization calls for discipline and creativity.

A business leader must have the passion, strength of will, and necessary knowledge to achieve long-term goals. A focused individual who can inspire his team to reach organizational goals is a visionary business leader.

It’s Important to Balance Vision and Action

While an organization’s vision is equivalent to the destination it seeks to reach, action represents the steps taken on the path to get there. Emphasis should be put into both vision and action. A balance is created when the directions or instructions of getting there are crystal clear. Action should be focused on what to do and how to get there.

Simply emphasizing the vision may not provide sufficient motivation. A leader should have a good understanding of his team. This will enable him to know what motivates them. An example of motivation may involve providing a comfortable cafeteria or a break room with comfortable furniture and lots of white boards where employees can relax and brainstorm together.

Creating an environment where workers can realize their peak performance is a necessary action towards achieving your vision. Such positive actions make your vision more realistic for team members. An enabling environment also allows members the freedom of creativity. Think of how many ways Google has shaped the internet. From advanced search algorithms to revolutionizing online marketing with AdWords; having an environment that nurtures innovation has kept the Google vision alive and on the continuous the path to success.

How Can a Business Leader Turn Vision into Reality?

Whenever a vision is followed by action, the vision can be turned into reality. One important action of leadership is the formation of a formidable team. No single skill set is sufficient in achieving success in business. A visionary leader recognizes talent and recruits individuals with skills that complement each other and contribute to business growth.

Before any action can be turned into reality, a great deal of discipline is necessary. Discipline requires that you follow through with your purpose and direction, even in the face of obstacles and setbacks. This may require the leader to take responsibility for the team’s actions and decisions.

A visionary leader turns vision into reality by creating a vivid image of the target they need to attain and creating a specific strategic plan for the coming year. The leader details what goals the company must accomplish and the specific responsibilities of each key team member. Along the way, the leader keeps the team informed of their progress. And the leader celebrates small victories with the team, while remaining focused on the big goal.

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