The Importance of Vision, Planning and Action in Business GoCoOpe

We have mentioned we want 2017 to be the year of decision and resolution fulfillment. Of course, we all have different goals, but we all want to be successful.

Our purpose is to show that if you work on your business vision and act upon it (though you don’t have much time), it will all be worth it.

Working to make your dreams a reality is quite a challenge. But it is not impossible.

Here’s an example --not precisely a business example-- that shows the power of vision and believing in what you do...

Do you have a dream? Work towards it!

Martin Luther King achieved something he firmly believed in, though everyone believed was impossible --equality of rights.

He knew he would have to fight for this and, of course, he had a plan, but the vision and the goal were always the same.

Do you have a dream? Work towards it!

The success of a business does not depend solely on its owner, but on every stakeholder. This takes effort, optimism, and overcoming challenges and hurdles.

Obviously, dreaming and being ambitious are not enough. You must clarify, write, and share your vision with others.

Your business dream, or the business of your dreams?

Why should you share it? Because it helps evidence its potential and it motivates others to action.

Did you know that… “Those who consider the vision of their organization as meaningful reach participation levels of 18% above average”?

Who can assure I will be successful if I invest my time?

Nothing is sure. The longer you think about it, the more time you lose. This is why not everyone makes important decisions, and why planning is vital.

What is our recommendation? Study examples of those who have gone through a similar situation, discover what worked for them, and take it to action.

"Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.“ –– Napoleon Hill

Let’s look at some examples…

Your business is going through financial difficulties. What should you do? Reassure your team, and let them know you trust, that with them on the team, the challenge will be overcome. This will motivate them and give them determination to continue working.

A customer is looking for your product. Even though your business is not well known, when he listens to your vision he knows you will get far. He even recommends your business!

How far will my vision go?

You can answer yourself…

What is your business vision for the next 3 to 10 years?

Think and dream big. What is the deeper meaning of your

business?  

What can it achieve or mean for your customers? Your staff? Your community?

What are the benefits of sharing your vision?

Motivating both you and your associates, in order to enable synergies.

The direction and the goal line up and become one and the same.

It attracts investors, customers and even staff.

Great! What steps should I take to start developing it?

What is your greatest dream for the next 10 years? Dream big! Vision is something to

pursue, which will require effort.

Think big and believe in your vision! Communicating it will produce in you

confidence, conviction and determination.

No matter how small your business is, it has a purpose to be respected. Start by writing every day, and you will put more passion

and heart into it.

Your vision will help develop plans and strategies. No one knows your business better than you. So we recommend you write a blueprint of the plan.

Seek trustworthy feedback and sound advice. Make questions such as “Is it a solid plan? Does it make sense?”

Note: Ask the right people --experienced, impartial professionals.

Don’t forget the 2 main critical ingredients…

The Small Business Administration (SBA)

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

“SCORE” (Service Core of Retired Executives)

There are organizations that you can look for them online and they can help you for free:

So, you already have your vision and your plan?

Let’s get to it!

A clear vision and a solid plan increase your chances for success.

If you don’t share your business vision, people (including your employees) could think or guess almost anything.

They could think the current situation is the way things will stay, which could encourage them to go look for other options.

Others could think you are like your competitors --just one more--, instead of standing out and being better.

If your stakeholders do not see a promising future, they may look for other options with a clearer, more enticing vision.

For you to keep in mind…

If your vision is not clear, and most important, if you don’t communicate it, your business will miss out on a powerful tool to

help align people towards making your vision reality.

A clear and bold vision and goals lead you to achieve more.