Developing a vision and mission - critical keys to a successful life

Every successful business has a vision and mission as a guiding force. For you to have a life filled with meaning, purpose and excitement, you too must spend time developing the vision and mission for your life.

A vision sets you apart as a leader. It gives you the motivation to move forward in the direction of your dreams. It also provides you with the passion to pursue the things you want in life and conquer your fears and doubts.

It's best to do this exercise alone, so that you can think about what you want from life, rather than what you think others want you to do. Here are some guidelines to get going:

Create the picture

Project yourself into the future - your 90th birthday party. You are celebrating this milestone. Who will be there? Family, friends, associates, who else? Picture each one paying tribute to you. What will each of them be saying about you, your character, the achievements you've made during your life?

Write down the responses that come to mind and write them in the present tense, for example: Several media representatives are present - I am well known for my contribution towards preserving the environment. They comment on my courage and integrity in various environmental campaigns. My tennis coach stands, he speaks of my determination to master the game.

Develop a mission statement