Which Way Is North?
It was early in my career.
Our small rural bank's executives had gathered around thirty directors and officers for a three-day planning retreat to develop our first strategic plan. The institution continued to expand rapidly, but it was also experiencing some growing pains.
A high-paid and well-regarded consultant from out of town had been retained to facilitate the strategic planning process.
I will never forget one of the first object lessons he taught. We were all asked to stand up, close our eyes, and point in the direction of true north. Then, while still standing and pointing, he asked, "According to this group of organization leaders, what way is true north?" When instructed, we opened our eyes and stood there pointing in different directions like a bunch of fools!
Score one for the consultant.
We understood the point. To forecast our firm's future, we needed to know and agree on the path ahead, the ultimate goal, why we wanted to get there, and how to recognize landmarks along the way.
The Mission
Knowing the beginning from the destination's end is valuable information. That is why successful companies develop a clear and simple mission statement for their business.
The same is true in our personal lives.
The mission statement is your personal plan's north star. It drives the goals and action plans that follow. What will be done is clarified, allowing all stakeholders to know when the desired result has been achieved.
The Vision
A mission statement alone is not enough to provide direction. For instance, the Allied Forces' objective in Europe during World War II was clearly defined: bring down the Nazis. But the Americans, British, and Soviets all seemed to have a different idea of what Europe should look like post-war. The lack of shared vision triggered a Cold War lasting for the next 45 years with the constant threat of Armageddon.
A clear vision statement works hand in hand with the mission statement by satisfying the human need to know "Why" and providing purpose to an endeavor. A mission without a vision is nothing more than work, and a vision without a mission is just a lovely dream.
The Plan
With a distinct mission and vision in place, you are ready to create a formal plan for your personal or business journey. As you move along the planned strategic path, you may readily reaffirm your bearings. For example, you may inquire, "Is what I'm doing now in line with my purpose and vision?" If the answer is yes, keep doing what you're doing. If the answer is no, then change your conduct to correspond.
Final Thought
Your mission and vision statements will serve as a bright North Star for setting and maintaining the strategic direction of your business. By remaining focused on your mission and referring to your vision statement often, you can make better decisions so you can continue to grow and succeed.
Thanks for reading!
Russell Anderson
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P.S. I appreciate and respect your investment of precious time to read my work! I strive to provide thought-worthy content that generates a worthwhile return on your investment.