Here’s Leadership Truth #4 from The Truth About Leadership  by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner:  Focusing on the future sets leaders apart.

The first question that people ask of a leader is “Who are you?”  The second question is “What is your vision?”   Kouzes and Posner say that “the capacity to imagine and articulate exciting future possibilities is the defining competence of leaders. . . They think beyond what’s directly in front of them, peer into the distance, imagine what’s over the horizon, and move forward toward a new and compelling future.”

The authors challenge leaders to spend more time in the future.   “Spend time reading about, thinking about, and talking about the long-term view.  Make it your business to spend time studying the future.”  

They go on to quote Michael Hyatt, CEO of publishing company Thomas Nelson, “Leadership is more than influence.  It is about reminding people of what it is we are trying to build – and why it matters.  It is about painting a picture of a better future.  It comes down to pointing the way and saying, “C’mon.  We can do this!”

The authors wrap up this leadership truth by stating “None of this can be done by a pessimist.  You must remain optimistic and hopeful about what is yet to come.  You must truly believe that the future will be brighter and be confident that we’ll get there together.  A positive difference can only be made by a positive leader.”

Are you focusing on the future for your team and your company?