Getting your vision in writing

Last month, we discussed the power of crafting a compelling practice vision. The next step: putting your vision in writing. As you're writing, see your vision as an already-accomplished reality, not merely as something you hope will happen. Write in the first person and present tense, creating a vivid mental image with as much detail as possible to bring your vision to life. Use all your senses—sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste—to develop your description.

Dr. Ray Smith Sample Vision

Make sure to include the answers to the following questions:

• Who will you be as you go about the practice of veterinary medicine? What qualities (such as competence, trustworthiness, or compassion) and values (such as success, love, recognition, happiness, or security) will you manifest?

• What will result from these qualities and from acting consistently with them?

• What will you do in a typical workday? What will you do in your spare time to re-energize?

• Where will you practice and with whom? What will you accomplish during your tenure?

• Who will you assist or support with these accomplishments? Are there special people, organizations, or causes that will be an important part of your life?

A vision—firmly in writing—serves as a motivating place to come from, rather than a place to get to. As you achieve certain aspects of your plan, your vision will evolve to include unforeseen elements. For these reasons, visions need periodic re-evaluation. They serve to inspire and motivate, not to restrict your options and vitality.

Editor's Note: Next month we look at implementing your vision.

Joseph S. Rubino is the CEO of The Center for Personal Reinvention, an organization that offers personal coaching and conducts courses to enhance personal effectiveness and business productivity.