This quote from the Welsh poet David Whyte summarizes the
incredible power of a compelling vision. My experience as a coach reinforces my
perspective that the word “world” has both internal and external connotations.
Some of my clients have lost their mooring – their sense of purpose and
direction – and their internal world of self has come into question. For
others, their inability to generate a sense in others that they were in the
thrall of a compelling vision has resulted in them being overlooked or
discounted as players.
In order to be able to function effectively in either world
there needs to be some sense of belonging (i.e., I am significant, have worth, and/or
am noticed) and some sense of trajectory (i.e., I’m going to and/or am contributing
to some “what” that is meaningful and worthwhile). It is these two dimensions
of belonging and trajectory that a compelling vision empowers and that the "world" resonates with.
The tragedy of losing my vision for my life is not just that
I lose touch with that which gives life meaning. I also lose the capacity for
"life" to find me. I become isolated, unsure of my ability to make
things happen; doubting my worth and questioning the very nature of my
existence.
We all need a vision for our life. We need the direction that vision provides; one that culminates in an end point that is really a rally point for the resources I can tap into as I use myself up. And, isn't that the point? To be used up in the pursuit of something I value.

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