Last week, I had the chance to spend a week at the home of a great leader (Robert E. Staub II) in business, spirituality, and family. The following post is a summary of one of his exercises from his book entitled The 7 Acts of Courage, and focuses on helping you develop a personal vision by which to live your life.

Define Your Personal Vision

• List your goals and aspirations on paper.
• Find an underlying theme running through your list. Summarize this theme in two sentences. Take note of how you feel about these sentences.
• Arrange the two sentences into a vision statement that speaks to your heart even more than to your head. Make sure it captures how you would like to experience your life, how you would like to relate to others, and what you would like to achieve. Take note of the feelings your statement evokes.
• Read it in front of a mirror looking yourself in the eyes, noticing your feelings and observing any doubts. Believe in the importance of your vision, even if your mind says it can’t be realized. Consciously choose your vision: Say to yourself, “I choose this vision. I choose to believe in it, in spite of any doubts.”
• Share this vision with your loved ones, and ask for their support.

Consciously Focusing on Your Vision

• Write your vision statement on several index cards. Post them in highly visible places, such as your refrigerator, car visor, bathroom mirror, desk, inside your planner, etc … be sure to carry one with your inside your purse, wallet, or pocket.
• Repeat your vision statement to yourself first thing in the morning, last thing before bed, and many times throughout the day. Remind yourself about what you most desire and your aspirations.
• Find opportunities to discuss your vision with others. Notice your interaction with others; consciously watch what actions bring you closer to your vision, and which may be working against the realization of your vision.

After diligently doing this exercise, I came to my own personal vision statement:

“I am creating a life of freedom, passion, and purpose. My purpose is to empower others to improve their own lives and the world. I trust myself and live with joy.”

This personal vision statement, dear to my heart, will also be the primary focus of my blog, teachings, and business philosophy moving forward.

I encourage you to develop your own unique Personal Vision Statement that calls to your heart and mind. If you need any guidance in the process, please do not hesitate to contact me.

To learn more about Robert E. Staub’s works, visit him at www.StaubLeadership.com

To get your copy of The 7 Acts of Courage: Bold Leadership for a Wholehearted Life…