The characteristics of visionary leaders

                    By Bayo Ogunmupe

     A compelling vision is the trademark of a visionary leader. He realises that a compelling vision is essential for leading in turbulent times. the fast pace world of today demands rapid decision making and independent action. A nation or business enterprise can no longer have teams checking in with a chief executive whenever decisions need to be taken. A compelling vision provides the nautical star by which teams can navigate in unknown waters. When the sea is crashing all around in the dark of night; the northern star by which to steer the ship is a matter of life and death.

     Vision is an essential part of great leadership. When the premier of Western Region Chief Obafemi Awolowo, with a social democratic ideology gave his compatriots free education; his vision was to create an egalitarian society. That is visionary  leadership. "Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision and relentlessly drive it to completion,"-Jack Welch, Former Chairman, General Electric of the USA. However, a vision statement is not vision. At best it is a way to communicate vision. The vision statement is a vision slogan.

     The problem of the vision slogan is that they fail to achieve the aim of a vision, which is to inspire, challenge and provide direction. A compelling vision is very powerful in itself. It has a broader and deeper concept than what can be communicated as a vision statement. Foe an organisation, vision encompasses the purpose and the reason of existence of the organisation. Its vision determines its strategic intent, its goals and future aspirations. Its vision guides the types of people it would hire and promote. Vision defines what you cannot do. Vision empowers you and gives you focus.

     You don't get the benefits of a vision with a vision statement. Many things make a vision compelling. Sadly bureaucratic red tape far too often destroy great visions, foreclosing any real change. Some of the characteristics that make a vision compelling are herby listed. When internalised, these characteristics will create for you a compelling vision. One, a compelling vision is future focused. It answers the question: What will our country look like in 10 years time? It describes the nation's desired future. Vision makes your direction clear. It describes the nation's big picture vividly. It sets the context for action.

     Two, a compelling vision provides direction. This means your vision must be specific enough to shape decision making and broad enough to allow for innovative strategies in support of achieving the vision. This is best accomplished by making clear the principles that will guide you in your journey into the future. Three, the vision must relevant and appropriate to the period in time. Visions don't exist in a vacuum, they must be grounded in the nation's history. It must exist in current reality. It must fit into the culture and values of the people. It is the golden thread that connects the past to the desired future. It is relevance that gives the vision credibility.

     Four, a vision must be aimed at achieving a set purpose. Such a purpose must be more meaningful than simply getting bigger or beating the competition. Purpose is about why we exist and why anyone should care. Vision connects people to a meaningful purpose, to something bigger than the present. The inventor of iPhone, Steve Jobs said: "We're here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise why else even be here."