Lee Horton delves into the critical importance of understanding both the destination and the starting point when creating a vision for an organisation. He emphasises that while many companies focus on their aspirational goals, they often overlook the current state of their teams and the challenges they face. Lee provides insightful questions to help leaders engage with their teams, uncovering what is working well, what hinders progress, and what support is needed to bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Understanding the Current State: Before setting a vision or goal, it's crucial to assess where the organisation currently stands. Knowing the starting point allows for a more effective strategy to reach the desired destination.

2. Engagement Through Questions: Engaging team members by asking targeted questions about their current challenges, frustrations, and what works well can provide valuable insights. This helps in understanding their perspective and meeting them where they are.

3. Three Key Aspects of Vision: When working on a vision, consider three components: where you want to go, where you are now, and how to bridge the gap between the two. This holistic approach ensures that everyone is aligned and understands the journey.

4. Focus on Empowerment and Support: Identifying moments when team members felt supported and empowered can help recreate those conditions. Understanding what keeps them engaged is essential for fostering a motivated workforce.

5. Stop, Start, Continue Framework: Utilise the stop, start, continue framework to evaluate current practices. Determine what should be stopped (hindrances), what should be continued (successful practices), and what new actions should be initiated to achieve the vision.

BEST MOMENTS

"Rather than talking about the destination, the word you want to get to, the big goal for next year, five years, 10 years, I want to talk to you about where are you today?" 

"What are your biggest challenges or frustrations that you face in your daily work?" 

"When people feel like and are genuinely listened to, cared for and supported, then they will give that back." 

"Don't just focus on the future. Absolutely start with the ending mind. But also take a moment to understand where we are today." 

"You can only understand where they are starting from if you meet them where they are." 

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.