Make Room

For our first two markets in 2018, we used half of the space at Decatur Recreation Center. April 2019 marked the first time we collapsed the wall and used the entire room. The reality is that even when we were using half the space at the previous markets, we were already in the full room. It was up to us to see it.

My vision is my belief that God placed a deposit in me before I was born to pursue my greatest and wildest dream as a maker. My vision is about my potential and seeing my fullest self without restrictions, hindrances, fear or doubts. My vision is not about my present conditions, but it is about my final destination. For some that might mean vending at a bigger venue or doubling your income, while for others it might be owning a brick and mortar store or developing a global brand. 

Sometimes people don’t understand our vision and we spend time too much time trying to convince them of our vision.  However our vision is bigger than our present conditions, people’s understanding and even what my eyes can see.

If I plan to go from a half space to a full room, then I better start seeing, believing in and pursuing my vision with everything I got.

Make room.

In Pursuit of Vision

In Pursuit of Vision

In Pursuit of Vision by Ciatta-Mae Stubblefield

Your vision is the direction you wish to steer your business. Unlike mission which focuses on the current state of your business, vision is future oriented and is centered on where your business is heading.

Where will your business be in 6 months? 1 year? 18 months? If you have a clear vision, you can thoughtfully answer these questions. While COVID-19 has taught us that no one knows tomorrow, makers with a clear vision plan can easily navigate challenges as unforeseen difficulties arise.

Here are three ways you can remain focused on the vision of your brand.Write your vision.

1. It’s hard to remain centered on your vision when you can’t even articulate where you are headed.  It’s very tempting to say you know it and carry it around in your head. However that is not the most effective way to hold fast to a vision. In educational circles, it is said “If you don’t write it down, it never happened.” So take a minute and write out your vision statement.

2. Set your vision GPS for the next calendar year. Carve out time to write out a one year vision plan for your brand. Don’t hold back here. If you could truly build the brand you have deep in your heart, what would it look like? Once you map out this plan, consider how you will arrive. What steps will you take next week? Next month?  Next three months? Next six months to get there? While you may have to adjust your steps at the three or even six month mark, remain steadfast in pursuit of your one year vision.

3. Anchor your vision. This means tie your vision statement to something greater than you. There will be days where you want to walk away from your vision or even your business. During times like these you have to remember your why and re-focus on where you are heading. For me, I have a memory verse that reminds me that I am not in this alone and where I fail, God won’t fail me. For others, it may be a favorite slogan, saying or even a vision board that inspires you. Take the time to root your vision in something solid and tangible.