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As a person that sees the vision beyond the perceived disaster, I always see potential.  The problem with potential is that, now, it may not amount to much.  I’ve seen so many excited people driven and focused on their ideas.  Most of these visions are shared among family, friends, and, sometimes, the world.  I have enjoyed reading some of the in-your-face, help-yourself books published recently.  I think Sarah Knight is hilarious if you can move beyond colorful sentence enhancements. Most of the information you read, you already know, but it never hurts to get a little confirmation.  The point is Sarah Knight, Lilly Singh, and loads of other visionaries started with the idea that they cultivated to success.  I can get a little sidetracked at times, but I still have my ultimate goal in mind.

So, here are some things I have considered as I work on these goals.  I am in no way an expert, and I plan to keep learning as long as I can.  Hopefully, some of these will inspire you or at least make you smile.

1. Everyone is not going to get it.  Your vision is just that, your vision.  Some people might look at you like you have two heads if you tell them you’re going to rebuild a rusty old jeep, especially if you are not mechanically inclined. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible. True story.
2. Every vision can be modified.  Your original plan may begin to materialize into a different shape, but it doesn’t mean you’ve sold out or failed.  It could just mean that you began to recognize different strengths and talents along the journey.  You may have started out with the goal of writing a children’s book about unicorns and candy but realized you like making and selling candy.  Maybe, goodies, gumdrops, and lollipops suit you better.  Yum!
3. Don’t allow minor setback and roadblocks to promote throwing in the towel.  Well, in boxing terms, stay in the fight.  It is so much easier to slow down during a run than it is to stop and start again. 
4. Surround yourself with people that are headed in your direction.  Build your village with friends, family, and acquaintances that will encourage you and cheer you on.  The people in your village also assist with keeping you grounded and telling you the truth, even if it hurts.

 “You don’t beg average people to be phenomenal…you just are phenomenal, and you will attract phenomenal.” -Unknown

• If you have experienced any level of good fortune, you might have recognized the “cling-on.”  These may be identified as the opportunists and the people that disappear at the first sign of trouble.  Limit your interactions with this group.  They can be creative energy suckers,take-over artists, and, generally, toxic to your process.
• Finally, celebrate your milestones.  Even a small success is a major accomplishment.  Be patient, exercise a touch of humility, stay encouraged, and, always, keep pushing.

Until next time,

Visionary Trailblazin’