If a leader does not have a compelling vision that they can clearly articulate to their team, they are dead in the water. Vision is what gives people hope. It is what motivates them. It keeps them engaged and committed and moving forward. A leader without a vision can't lead because there is no place to lead. The vision sets the destination. For people to follow a leader, they want to know where they are going!
Far too often people land in leadership roles and they have no vision other than their own self-advancement. Their entire agenda is to take the next step on the upward career ladder. In many cases, it is drudgery for them and they just endure it. True leaders have a vision for others that excites them and drives them forward. It compels them to go on. It energizes them. It motivates them. It sustains them. AND, it is contagious. People can't help but get excited and get pulled into the cause.
Unfortunately, 'visionary leadership' has become a bit of a cliché and rolls off tongues without much forethought or reflection, just like any other corporate speak phrase. For a vision to be compelling, it has to be authentic and sincere. People will know the difference. You can't fake it over the long haul. You will eventually be found out and the damage will have already been done The vision matters!
True effective leadership requires a vision that is authentic, compelling and contagious.
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