Got Vision? Consider The Seven Generations Question

Posted on 07/14/2011 at 08:00 am

We all know vision ranks among the most important traits of leadership. You’re probably well familiar with the type of vision required to create a 1, 3, or 5 year strategic plan.

So, as a thought experiment, let’s take a minute to stretch your powers of vision far beyond the 5 year “long term” horizon.

Let’s think about the really, really, long term. . .

In certain Native American traditions, elders ask this question before making decisions:

"How will our decisions today affect our children seven generations from now?"

Wow. Imagine seven generations from now. Assuming a generation is about 30 years, that’s 210 years from now - 2220 AD.  The boomers' grandchildren's grandchildren's grandchildren are 50.

Now, although it’s difficult to even imagine what the world will be like, try walking through the following questions. They’ll help you build your ability to visualize and they will also help you tap into your core values, principles, and noblest aspirations.

Ask yourself: “As a human being and as a leader in my organization, how do I want my decisions and actions to affect people 200 years from now?”

“What about 50 years from now?”

“What about 25 years from now?”

“What about 10 years from now?”

Whether you’re in government, business, or the non-profit sector, taking time away from the busy demands of work to reflect on upon the future and connect with your core values can pave the way for truly visionary leadership and a meaningful legacy.

As the beautiful Native American proverb says,

"We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors.

We borrow it from our children."

As a leader, what’s the legacy you want to leave to future generations?

- Adam Chalker, Senior Consultant

Tags: Leadership Development  

Comments

I enjoyed this post and it was very timely for me, in particular. At my former employer, Williams Adley, the vision statement was created by the CEO, Tom Williams, Jr. The vision statement was "Building a Legacy of Success for Future Generations". Usually a company has a vision statement that relates to its business. But, this founder wanted to make sure that the company would be stable even without him. In late June, Tom Williams, Jr. passed away, and he has left behind a stable and growing company due to his vision. It is his legacy; for his family, as well as his employees to ensure there was continuation. Often we get so caught up with the daily rountines that we forget to stop and hug our children, read a story and/or appreciate our colleagues. I enjoy this post. Thank you.
Posted by Suzanne Pasternak on May 18, 2012 at 08:19 am

 

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