How prepared are you? Vision

It has been said that what you do everyday prepares you for turbulent times. How prepared are you? Since the end of the third quarter of 2008, most businesses across the country have experienced turbulent times. Some of it could have been avoided. Some not so much. Either way, were you prepared?

Did you know that you can create your own turbulence? For example, how many businesses out there say, "We don't have to focus on the loyal customers. They are going to come back month after month anyway."

* NOT if we discontinue their products.
* NOT if our prices are too high.
* NOT if they don't feel valued.

Business owners may never say those actual words. But their actions, their structure, and their processes communicate this type of attitude very well.

Does this type of attitude fit with your vision? Does your organization make the connection between the leader's vision and the organizational structure? It seems that most of the time it's all about WIIFM - what's in it for me. If the vision of the organization incorporates every level of the organization (structure, processes, commitment) and if the vision is true (true being defined as something that is honest, honorable and upright) then everything that is done to support that vision will reveal your level of preparedness.

Does your vision prepare you? How well does your vision do the following:

1) Create a shared and meaningful purpose.

2) Inspire passion and interest.

3) Guide decision making and strategy.

4) Convey values.

Based on these statements and your own experience how will you communicate your vision? Will your level of preparedness be frantic or constant in turbulent times?

"In this volatile business of ours, we can ill afford to rest on our laurels, even to pause in retrospect. Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future." Walter Elias Disney (1901-1966)