Instructor Resource
Northouse, Introduction to Leadership, 5e
SAGE Publishing, 2021
Lecture Notes
Chapter 7: Creating a Vision
Learning Objectives
1. Identify the five characteristics of a vision
2. Assess the leadership skills required to translate a vision into reality
Chapter Outline
I. Introduction
A. In the context of leadership, a vision is a mental model of an ideal future state.
B. Vision and Mission:
i. A vision can be generated by an individual leader or crafted by a team
working together.
II. Vision Explained
A. A Picture
i. A vision creates a picture of a future that is better than the status quo.
ii. Visions paint an ideal image of where a group or an organization should
Instructor Resource
Northouse, Introduction to Leadership, 5e
SAGE Publishing, 2021
B. A Change
i. A vision represents a change in the status quo, moving toward something
more positive in the future.
C. Values
i. Values are the ideas, beliefs, and modes of action that people find
worthwhile or desirable.
D. A Map
i. Vision provides a map for goals: It gives direction so followers know when
they are on track and when they have slipped off course.
E. A Challenge
i. A vision challenges people to transcend the status quo to do something to
benefit others.
ii. Visions challenge people to commit themselves to worthwhile causes.
iii. Example: Kennedy’s vision for America had a huge impact on the
Instructor Resource
Northouse, Introduction to Leadership, 5e
SAGE Publishing, 2021
III. Vision in Practice
A. Articulating a Vision
i. Although it is very important for a leader to have a vision, it is equally
important for a leader to be able to articulate explain and describe the
vision to others.
a. Adapting the vision: A leader needs to articulate the vision to fit
within others’ latitude of acceptance by adapting the vision to the
audience.
B. Implementing a Vision
i. Implementing a vision requires a great of effort by a leader over an
extended period.
ii. Leadership and implementation:
a. Acting out the vision: When a leader is seen acting out the vision, he
or she builds credibility with others.