"This Is Who We Are" v. "This Is Where We're Going"

Tony Morgan, on his blog, recently shared a quote from Shimon Peres, and then said this:

There’s a subtle gap between vision and position that leaders can’t neglect.

Position says, “This is who we are.” Vision says, “This is where we’re going.”

Position says, “These are standards we follow.” Vision says, “These are the opportunities to embrace.”

Position says, “This is how we do it.” Vision says, “We can create a better way.”

Position says, “We need to honor our past.” Vision says, “We need to explore the future.”

Both are essential to leadership. Not all leaders know how to craft messages that address both.