August 2003
The Question from Tim in Florida - "As we planned, I introduced our Strategic Vision at our Company meeting. And, just as you said, there were some employees who clearly were not interested in this next great idea I have. I'm nervous!"
Yes, we did talk about this happening. The reason for the distrust can be many things. The bottom line, however, is the belief that this is just another "here we go again". Over time, as it becomes more clear to everyone you are serious about your vision, some may leave, some will wait for the "seizure" to pass and others will pray you actually make it happen. And in the end, your success will be judged on your ability to "walk your talk". Your announcement is the launch pad for the next step in the Journey - the real "work of the work". You did the work to uncover your Spiritual Objective. So as you go forward, reflect on it. Your Spiritual Objective is the source of your vitality, your commitment, and the vision you want most in your life. It will give you energy to create a remarkable business based on the Company's Strategic Vision. The Company Meeting gave everyone a clear understanding of the Company Strategic Vision. As your own committiment is tested and those around you challenge the new reality, keep in mind the Company is a separate entity, designed to contribute to your Spiritual Objective and your personal goals. This is not about the entrepreneurial chaos of the past where changing course, getting a new idea, not following through on what you promised, etc., caused disruption and unhappiness with your staff. This is about building the business to contribute to what is most important to you and your life. It is about working in an environment where the values, ethics and personal conduct that are most important to you become manifest. Remember the American Company of Know How. They pay great, but you work long hours for abusive people who only care about getting ahead. They know the way to the top is not by following the stated Company mission, since there really isn't one; it's about getting through the day. Problems come when the market turns; short-term cash management and profitability goals dictate layoffs. The best of the reengineering pros comes through with a clean, sharp sword and tells you to let go of the fat. Whack! Never mind this short-term fix has an unknown strategic impact to the business and your team, the pro just want to hit the goal. So the 7 people who got layoff, fired, freed, moved on or left for another opportunity had families, bills, and challenges too. Who was at fault, the employee for not paying attention, the leader for not paying attention? Someone and probably most everyone was not staying awake to the reality. No one had time; everyone was busy wondering what to do. You are building your business with intent! You have a clear vision, specific standards of conduct, behavior and commitment. Your vision is your business philosophy - your belief. You will integrate it into the day-to-day decisions made in the business. You will use dual vision to keep your eye on the future as you make the everyday decisions in your business. You will drive accountability to each person and honor his or her commitment to the Vision. You initiated this process on the Business Principles for developing The Entrepreneurial Space Between your dreams and your reality.
- Live - The foundation of why you do what you do; your Spiritual Objective
- Lead - Align, integrate and conduct yourself consistent with the values and purpose of the Strategic VisionDiscover
- Create the protocols to deliver on your Strategic Vision
- Validate the result produced
- Replicate those that contribute to your Strategic Vision
- Measure - Qualitative and Quantitative measurements of your personal and professional results based on the goals set forth in your Spiritual Objective and Strategic Vision
It's now time to hold yourself and those around you accountable. It means walking the talk, acting as you speak, eliminating conflicting personalities. Feel the fear and do it anyway. It is time to live, breath and act upon your Spiritual Objective and Strategic Vision. This is the work of the work. Live, Lead, Discover, Measure and absolutely make it fun!
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