This month, I’d like to invite you into a practice that consistently helps leaders and teams clarify their direction, energize their actions, and align around what truly matters: Personal Visioning, inspired by the extraordinary approach developed at Zingerman’s. I was lucky enough to learn about the approach during a ZingTrain session organized by the OpenStack community in Ann Arbor, and I can attest that it is fantastic!
At Zingerman’s, the personal visioning practice starts with a simple yet powerful question:
“What does success look like for you, at a specific point in the future?”
However, before diving into visioning, Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of Zingerman’s, recommends a crucial preparatory step:
First, make a list of things you’re proud of.
This preliminary practice helps shift your mindset toward positivity and possibility. Celebrating your achievements—big or small—energizes you and prepares you to envision a meaningful and inspiring future.
Next, vividly describe what success looks and feels like for you 3, 5, or 10 years from now. Write in the present tense, as though it’s already happening. The richer and more specific your description, the more powerful and actionable your vision will become.
Why Personal Visioning Matters
When leadership is reactive—driven solely by external pressures—it can feel draining and aimless. A personal vision provides a compass for decision-making and growth, enabling leaders to move intentionally toward meaningful goals.
When each team member has clarity on their personal vision, it empowers more purposeful collaboration and drives collective success.
Ready to Try It Yourself? Follow These Steps:
- Write your pride list: Note down achievements, strengths, and moments of joy that you’re proud of.
- Pick your timeframe: Choose a specific future date—3, 5, or even 10 years ahead.
- Write vividly in the present tense: Describe where you are, what you’re doing, who’s around you, how you feel, and why this matters deeply to you.
- Include personal and professional details: Let your vision reflect your whole self.
- Share your vision: Sharing can create connection and accountability, making your vision even more likely to become reality.
If you want to explore further, Ari’s book Zingerman’s Guide to Good Leading, Part 1: A Lapsed Anarchist’s Approach to Building a Great Business offers in-depth guidance, engaging stories, and practical tips on personal visioning.
What could become possible if you clearly defined your personal vision? How might that clarity influence your leadership right now?
Let’s continue the conversation—reply to this email and share a highlight from your pride list or a piece of your vision. I’d love to hear from you.