I’ve often found myself stuck in the whirlwind of daily tasks—just putting out fires, moving from one crisis to the next, and wondering if there’s any real direction behind it all. As a leader, it’s so easy to get caught up in short-term pressures—meeting deadlines, managing problems, dealing with people’s needs. But I’ve come to understand that leadership is about much more than just surviving the day. It’s about lifting my head above the chaos and guiding others toward a future that’s not just possible—but meaningful.

That’s where vision comes in.

In Leading with Faith, Chip Nightingale talks about the essential role of vision in leadership. Not a vision driven purely by ambition, but one rooted in faith. His book is a powerful mix of practical leadership wisdom and faith-centered principles, and it’s helped me see how important it is to build a long-term, purpose-driven vision. A vision anchored in values and sustained by faith—one that sparks action and endurance, no matter how hard things get.

So what does it really mean to lead with vision? And how can I, as a leader, build a vision that not only inspires but keeps me and my team focused through both good times and challenges? Here’s what I’ve learned.

Vision Is My Compass

Vision is the compass that keeps me from getting lost when the path ahead isn’t clear. Without it, I drift or get distracted by whatever is demanding attention right now. As Nightingale says, vision gives me direction when things are uncertain and a sense of purpose when the way forward is foggy.

I think about Moses and Nehemiah—leaders who inspire me deeply. Moses dealt with constant complaints and pushback, but he never lost sight of the promised land. Nehemiah faced threats and opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, but his faith-driven vision never wavered. These weren’t just men reacting to the moment; they were propelled by something greater. That’s the kind of leadership I aim for—a vision rooted in something bigger than myself, something that shapes every choice I make.

How I Define and Refine My Leadership Vision

1. I Start with Purpose

My leadership journey always begins with one question: Why am I doing this? What’s my deeper purpose? For me, leadership isn’t about climbing a ladder or hitting milestones—it’s about leaving a legacy of service, integrity, and empathy. Every decision I make has to reflect those values. When I stay grounded in my “why,” the vision becomes clearer and more powerful.

2. I Look Past Present Challenges

There are always roadblocks. I’ve learned not to let them define my leadership. Like Nehemiah, I try to stay focused on the horizon. Yes, I have to deal with today’s issues—but I also need to keep building something for the future. I regularly ask myself: Where do I want to be in five or ten years? How do today’s actions shape that outcome?

3. I Ground My Vision in Faith

One of the most important lessons from Leading with Faith is that faith can be a powerful anchor in leadership. When I lead from faith, I don’t just rely on plans and strategies—I trust in a purpose beyond my own. Through prayer, reflection, and seeking God’s guidance, I’ve found courage to take bold steps even when the path is unclear. That spiritual foundation gives me strength to lead with clarity and conviction.

4. I Revisit My Vision Regularly

Vision isn’t a one-time statement—it’s something I return to and refine as I grow. Early in my leadership, I was focused on personal achievement. But over time, my perspective shifted. I began to realize that real leadership is about lifting others up. That change has reshaped my vision into something more outward-looking, more impactful. I check in with myself often: Does this vision still reflect who I am and what I’m building?

5. I Share My Vision and Invite Others In

A vision isn’t powerful if it only lives in my head. I’ve learned to share it—to bring my team into the process. I ask for feedback, listen to their insights, and invite them to help shape the path forward. When we’re all aligned, our shared energy makes us unstoppable. That collective ownership turns vision into momentum.

Leading with Purpose Means Seeing What Others Miss

What I’ve taken from Nightingale’s book—and from my own journey—is that real leadership isn’t about short-term wins. It’s about building something that lasts. Whether I’m leading in a workplace, a ministry, or a community, my vision sets the tone for everything. It shapes the decisions I make, the way I serve, and the legacy I leave behind.

So, I’ve made it a habit to pause and ask: What is my vision right now? Is it still rooted in purpose, faith, and service? If not, it’s time to realign.

Because when I lead with vision, I’m not just reacting—I’m building. I’m trusting. I’m guiding others toward something that matters.

I lead with vision. I lead with faith. And above all, I lead with purpose.