Think of your vision statement as your north star. Without it, you’re just wandering around, hoping for the best. You’ll have a tough time remembering why you started a business in the first place and what you’re working to accomplish. Think about the flood of feelings, questions, and decisions in your brain when you’re starting a business: Do I have enough money to support my family? Am I making the best decision? What if it doesn’t work out? How do I build a thriving business? Why isn’t my business growing? What can I do to get better results? Your company vision statement serves as a reminder that you need to keep going. It has the potential to keep you motivated, especially when it’s time to take a big risk.

What Is a Vision Statement?

Before you check out vision statement examples, you first need to know what is a vision statement. A vision statement is like a photograph of your future business, which gives your business shape and direction. It describes what the founder wants the organization to achieve in the future; it’s more about the “what” of a business. It differs from a mission statement, which describes the purpose of an organization and more about the “how” of a business. If you were to take a photo of your future business now, what would it look like? What do you want your business to be recognized for one day? You need to have a crystal clear vision when you start out, otherwise, you can get easily lost in deciding the best way forward. When you are making strategic decisions for your business and even daily operation decisions, your vision statement will give you the inspiration and targeted direction you need.

The Importance of a Vision Statement

Without a vision statement, your business will lack the motivation to keep going. The more specific and clear you are, the better your chances are of seeing your vision turn into reality. The importance of a vision statement cannot be overlooked; not only does it provide long-term direction and guidance, but it also gives you the inspiration and the energy to keep going when you feel lost. Vision statements can be a very useful tool for keeping you on track throughout your business journey. Here are some of the ways they can help you.

It allows you to focus on long-term success

During the beginning stages of building your business, you may have a tendency to focus on what’s right in front of you, which can sometimes prevent you from looking ahead of that goal. A vision statement can remind you of your ultimate goals for long-term success.

It supports you when you’re making important decisions

A vision statement can help you guide your decisions and actions. It can help you stay focused and on track, especially when you’re tempted to make short-term choices in order to ensure immediate growth. A company vision statement can remind you of what you want to achieve as you make decisions, such as business tools and investments like advertising or a new computer.

It can help you attract and retain employees

A vision statement can help you attract and retain employees who are passionate about your vision. Employees who believe in your company’s mission will feel more fulfilled and inspired.​

It can help foster brand loyalty

A company vision statement can help your brand stand out and get noticed. A good vision statement will capture the essence of your brand, inspiring your customers as well as colleagues. Additionally, customers can feel a deeper connection to your brand. They will be more likely to recommend your business and stick with you through the ups and downs.

How to Craft an Inspiring Vision Statement

1. Dream Big and Use Clear Language

An inspiring vision statement should inform a clear direction and priorities for the organization while challenging team members to grow together. Based on our expert sources’ advice, we’ve got some great tips for you:

Imagine what you want the business to be like in five to ten years. Infuse the business’ values in the statement. Make sure that the statement is implying a clear focus for the business. Write your vision statement in the present tense. Use clear and concise language. Ensure the statement is easily understood.

There are many different types of vision statements and there is no wrong or right way to do it. The most important thing is to resonate with it. It will always inspire you and give you a clear targeted direction.

2. Get Inspiration From Successful Companies

Having researched a number of successful companies’ vision statements, I’ve shortlisted 20 good examples for the new startups:

1. Disney

2. Oxfam

3. Ikea

5. Microsoft

6. Starbucks

7. Avon

8. Honda (1970s VS. Present)

9. Nike – (1960s VS. Present)

10. Apple (1980s VS Present)

11. Tesla

13. Coca Cola

14. United Airlines

15. Facebook

16. Ford

17. The North Face

18. Walmart

19. Netflix

20. Heinz

The Bottom Line

Remember, always keep your vision statement up-to-date to direct your company’s actions. Serve people worldwide with the “joy of expanding their life’s potential” (2022) To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world (2022) To make the best products on earth, and to leave the world better than we found it. (2022) Your vision also needs to evolve. Keep your vision statement alive and visibly in front of you, and let it help direct your actions and activities. This is where you get to dream really big and allow your imagination to fly as high as you want. Don’t hold back, let your creative juices flow, and give yourself permission to explore what is possible for your business. To your success! Featured photo credit: Kevin Bhagat via unsplash.com