“A goal without a date is just a dream.”
– Milton Erickson
If you know who Milton Erickson is, you’re probably aware of NLP – Neuro-linguistic Programming. Erickson’s ideas influenced the creators of NLP.
This isn’t about NLP.
This is about the difference between a vision and a mission.
A mission statement is about setting objectives and the methods or approaches taken to reach those objectives.
A vision statement is about a future state you want to achieve.
I have a simple formula for this:
DO = F + I + T
To reach your Desired Outcome (i.e. vision) you must balance it with your Focus, Identity and Time (i.e. mission).
Knowing what future state you want is great but it’s not enough:
- Find the focus of your Desired Outcome.
- Identify the knowledge, skills and behaviours (Identity) required to reach your Desired Outcome.
- Set a timeframe in which to achieve your Desired Outcome.
If you start with this, your goal won’t remain just a dream.