The Challenge of Defining a Vision

Crafting a clear vision can be a daunting task for many writers, especially in the early stages. I certainly faced this challenge, despite having penned numerous articles and posts. Here are some common concerns I often encounter:

• "I'm not an expert in anything."
• "I don't want to confine myself to a niche."
• "I have multiple passions."
• "What if I change my mind?"
• "My vision isn't perfect."

These concerns are valid, yet they can be overcome:

• You don’t need to be an expert; share your unique journey and experiences.
• Limiting yourself to a single niche is not a requirement.
• It’s possible to have diverse interests while still maintaining a coherent vision.
• Remember that a vision is not fixed; it’s dynamic and likely to evolve over time, which is part of its beauty!
• There is no such thing as a perfect vision; it's a work in progress, so continue to iterate and improve.

Strategies for Finding Your Vision

While some strategists advocate for defining your vision first, others suggest a more organic approach—allowing your vision to emerge naturally. Some practical advice recommends narrowing your focus to a specific niche. So, what should you do?

In my experience, the most effective way to develop a vision is through a synergistic approach that combines all three strategies:

1. Organically

   Allow your vision to unfold naturally. The more you write, the clearer your understanding becomes regarding what drives you and resonates with your audience.

Initially, the notion of "finding your niche" can be intimidating. Taking that first step to write publicly is crucial; building confidence through practice is essential—even if your vision isn't fully formed yet. In my early months writing on platforms like LinkedIn and Medium and participating in podcasts, I focused on creativity rather than obsessing over a vision. The act of writing helped me reflect and ideate, bringing clarity to my direction.

2. Top-Down

   Start with your "why." Reconnecting with your core purpose should be central to everything you do. Before you publish anything, consider the impact you wish to achieve with your writing. Do you aim to entertain, empower, inspire, challenge, coach, educate, or assist?

My writing consistently seeks to empower and motivate others—whether that involves running a marathon, penning their first book, or building a personal brand. The essence of your vision lies not in what you do, but in the impact you wish to create.

3. Bottom-Up

   Connect the dots. This approach emphasizes starting from the ground up and allowing your passions to guide you toward your vision. I encouraged my Medium friend, L. Jean Davis, to explore her passions, and she found her own unique vision.

A few months into my writing journey, I performed the "napkin exercise." I took a paper napkin and jotted down the topics that excited me without any filtering. I discovered that these topics could be categorized into three main areas:

• Building Online: Writing, publishing, personal branding, public speaking

  • Mindset: Self-improvement, growth mindset, positivity, inclusion
  • Well-Being: Sports, triathlons, mental health

While this exercise didn't yield a definitive vision, it illuminated my passions and the common threads that linked them. This exploration led me to uncover my vision: empowering others to unlock their potential through creativity, mindset, and well-being.

Finding Your Hidden Links

What key topics unite your interests? If you're struggling to establish a cohesive vision for your writing, don't fret. Keep writing, creating, and reflecting on your "why" and the impact you aspire to make. Trust your instincts to guide you toward your North Star!

Join The Lemon Tree Mindset 🌳🍋: Focus on writing, mindset, and well-being.