Charting the Course: On Vision, Perseverance, and the Art of Actualization
As we stand at the dawn of a new year, ripe with possibilities, it feels pertinent to reflect on the principles guiding our journey into the months ahead. As Owner & CEO of eklypse media LLC, I’m compelled to share not just philosophies, but personal credos sculpting my approach to life and work. Today, I delve into two fundamental tenets - "Long-term vision, daily action" and "I will find a way, or I will make one" - which transcend mere aphorisms; they are the cornerstones of which I live.
“Long-term vision, daily action” captures more than planning or strategy. It represents the profound belief that our life's grand narrative is crafted incrementally, each day. Envisioning our future over decades inspires expansive dreams and ambitious goals, which may seem elusive in the short term. Yet, crucially, these dreams are actualized through our daily endeavors. It's a personal credo that inspires dreaming big yet recognizes the power of small, consistent efforts. As Nietzsche said, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” This highlights the importance of a long-term vision – a ‘why’ that navigates us through life's unpredictability and lends meaning to our daily triumphs.
However, without action, even the most magnificent vision remains ethereal. Here, “daily action” becomes vital. It echoes Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Each day presents a new canvas, and though our choices might seem inconsequential, they lay the bricks of our envisioned future. Our routine tasks and decisions weave the fabric of our desired future.
My second tenet, “I will find a way, or I will make one,” speaks to the indomitable human spirit, embodying persistence, resilience, and innovation. When confronted with obstacles, this phrase reminds me to forge my own path, echoing Nietzsche’s concept of the “will to power” – the desire to exert and expand one’s influence. It's about actively shaping our destiny through our actions and decisions, harnessing our inner strength to find solutions, or innovating in their absence.
This principle extends beyond Nietzsche’s aspiration of exerting control; it compels us to translate our will into tangible action. It serves as a clarion call to elevate our circumstances continuously through self-directed determination. When existing paths are not available, we delve into our mental reserves to create new ones. It's about more than enduring life's challenges; it’s about reshaping circumstances to our advantage. This tenet serves as a potent reminder that the trajectory of my journey is limited only by the strength of my will and the vigor of my imagination. By embracing this creed, I unlock a formidable version of myself, becoming the architect of my own life.
I contend that true greatness stems from harmonizing vision with an unwavering drive to realize it. While the vision sets our course, our daily actions and perseverance in overcoming obstacles propel us towards our goals.
As we step into the new year, let these principles be more than mere words; let them steer our quest for self-actualization. They remind us that while vision sets the destination, our daily efforts and steadfast determination fuel the voyage. By embracing these ideals, we can achieve success and embody the excellence and resilience that represent the zenith of human potential.
Recommended Readings
Mastering Time: The Ultimate Guide to Efficient Time Management
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
The Spartan Way by Joe De Sena
The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
Make The Noise Go Away: The Power Of An Effective Second-In-Command