None of us have crystal balls. But we can use our minds and intuition to see past the obstacles and limitations we encounter in our lives today.
Maybe you’re dissatisfied with your current career but hesitant to leave everything you know behind and try something new. Or you might see a need that’s not being met and have an idea for fixing the problem, but unsure how to handle the logistics.
Our Men of Vision section this year includes profiles of 15 visionaries who have advanced their ideas in areas as diverse as real estate, housing, wellness and healing, government, law, marketing, rodeos and boot-making.
They have brought their own firms to life and reimagined delivery of services and events for the 21st century. Most of all, they have believed in themselves and the teams they have assembled to bring their visions to reality.
And there are things you can do to enhance your own potential as a visionary — some people seem to be born with this talent, but everyone can develop it:
REIMAGINE — Practice envisioning how inefficient or ineffective processes can be improved, whether they’re at home, at work or something you see on the street.
EMBRACE “WHY NOT”-ISM — Do this with the persistence of a 2-year-old asking “Why?” to everything they’re told, especially with “can’t be done” or defeatist statements that tend to shut down conversations. This can help promote visionary thinking in those around you, too.
LOOK FOR COLLABORATION — This can come out of the “why-not”-ism. The conversations sparked by this question often spur others to bring up new ideas or resources that can widen the possibilities dramatically.
LOOK FROM THE OUTSIDE IN — Take on the perspective of someone outside of the group you’re a part of when looking at the routines you’ve put in place, consciously or subconsciously, to accomplish things. How can these be done more effectively? What needs to be done to get there?
EMBRACE DIVERSE IDEAS — Find inspiration from places that may not be directly related to your situation, and you’ll be surprised with what you can come up with!