I was once at a business conference with a friend, and we happened to be discussing vision boards. The subject prompted her to dive into a deep conversation about how she frequently had used vision boards in the past, helping her realise her goals. She was able to get a new job, take extravagant vacations and even buy a designer handbag, all based on this vision board.

To say the least, I was a little skeptical (or, well, maybe more than a little). However, even if you don’t think that pasting a photo of what you want in life to a board and hanging it in your office will actually get you what you want, you should still realise that having a vision is vital to get where you want to go, board or not. And what better time to formulate your life vision than the end of the year? You’re wrapping things up, both at work and mentally. With the holidays, come closure. So why not develop a new vision for where you want to be in 2018?

It’s just a fact of life — time goes by quickly, regardless of your age. As time goes by, we focus on doing the things we need to do in life. We get up, go to work, fill out reports, go to meetings, answer emails, go home and go to bed. But in between all the doing and going, we let the most meaningful goals in our lives slip by, unnoticed. And as George Harrison once said, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there.”

 

So, how can you create a concrete vision?

A vision for what you want to be and where you want to go in 2018.

First, start off by really thinking about what you want to do and be, and what you’re going to need to get there.

What are the things in life that matter the most to you; particularly, what is it that matters to you in regard to your career? Do you want to move forward as a leader and innovator? Do you want to be recognised for the hard work you put in? Do you feel like you’re being looked over when it comes to promotions?

You need to really ask yourself the right questions. The kind that will galvanise you into action.

Then write it down. Make it tangible. You don’t have to put it on a vision board, but do have it handy, whether you’re writing it in the back of your planner, or you’re taping it to the side of your computer monitor.

 

Now that you know what you want, can you accomplish it in a year’s time? Is it realistic? If you’re an accountant, a little out of shape and have no scientific knowledge, and your goal is to become an astronaut in the year 2018…I have some bad news for you. It’s not going to happen, my friend.

However, if your goal for 2018 is to switch your career path, to climb the corporate ladder in your company, to become a leader and not a follower…well, then, those are totally do-able.

 

But, you have to start by doing a personal stock take. You need to ask yourself the questions that are going to trigger an emotional response. This is the only way to make your goals a reality.

Thankfully, The Engaging Executive has all the questions you need to ask yourself, so you’re in the best spot possible to start. Read here on the skills you will naturally acquire in becoming an Engaging Executive.

 

Want to learn more?

To becoming an Engaging Executive, have a look at our 6 Steps to Become an Engaging Executive. It’s a totally free video series that shows you how to become a professional who commands respect and authority, while receiving the admiration of your colleagues.

Also watch this Vlog, to hear one our client’s transformative story.