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Focusing on the future is what sets leaders apart!

We have all had a glimpse into the future – you know, the dream you had about an amazing goal you see yourself accomplishing. The difference between followers and leaders is that leaders take their dreams seriously and act upon them. The capacity to imagine and articulate an exciting future filled with possibilities is the defining competency of great leaders. Leaders are custodians of the future! These are the people that are always asking “What’s new?” “What’s next?” “What’s going to happen when this project is completed?” Here are five truths about focusing on the future!

Leaders Look Long Term

In a 30+ year ongoing survey asking the question of what do people want in their leaders that they would willingly follow, the quality of being FORWARD-LOOKING is second only to being honest. Keep in mind this research is global and not confined to the North American context.

You Have To Spend More Time In The Future

Developing a forward-looking mind-set means you have to spend time in the future with your thoughts and skills. It seems too few people appreciate this skill and the time it takes to cultivate. Generally speaking you need to have a 3-5 view that anticipates events and projects of importance. Otherwise, you are left to chase glitz, bling, and sparkle leaving you clueless as to whether this glitz is what we actually need.

Learn to set aside time to think into the future about trends, ethical issues, financial trending, and future needs. Research tells us that top executives only spend about 3% of their time thinking about and getting others onboard about the next ten years of their organization. Michael Hyatt former CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishing states: “Vision is the lifeblood of any organization. It is what keeps it moving forward. It provides meaning to the day-to-day challenges and setbacks that make up the rumble and tumble of real life.”

Explore Your Past Experience

Aiming for the future always starts with a look back into your history. You enrich your future when you recall the richness of your past. In other words what are the recurring themes of my past that will give clarity to my present and a foundation to build the future upon. Your central theme in life is probably something that just occurred this morning. Rather it is something that has been there for a long time. What is the topic that you keep returning to over and over again.

Imagine the Possibilities

The World Future Society recommends six distinct categories that will assist in understanding business opportunities and trends.

1.Economics

2.Government

3.Environment

4.Society

5.Technology

6.Demographics

A collection of this sort of data will assist you in looking up fro your present gaze to see what is on the horizon. There is one source missing on this list that faith-based non-profits cannot ignore – The Bible! We look into the future with the information of scripture to guide and influence our dreams and hopes.

Be Optimistic

Warren Bennis University of Southern Cal suggests that leaders in today’s and tomorrow’s business climate should have the mantra, “Only Optimists Survive!” Being optimistic does not mean that we fail to face up to reality and hardships. It is not that you deny the diagnosis of a situation, you simply deny the verdict. Optimistic people will work harder against all odds or in spite of the odds.

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Music: “Gratitude Mood” by David Arivett. You can learn more about his music by clicking on his name. THANKS DAVID!