What Does a Vision Statement Include?

What Do You Need to Include in a Vision Statement?

What does a vision statement include? How long should a vision statement be? Do I involve my kids or should it just remain between me and my spouse? All of these questions you might wrestle with have been asked before in some form or fashion. 

Creating a family vision statement is a meaningful way to establish direction and set your family on a path for multi-generational success. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about what does a vision statement include  and how to refine it to your unique family dynamic:

8 Checkpoints for What’s In Your Vision Statement:

1. How Long Should a Vision Statement Be?

• A vision statement should be concise but comprehensive. Aim for 5-7 words that clearly express your family’s purpose and aspirations. The goal is to make it memorable and impactful while avoiding unnecessary complexity.

2. What Does a Vision Statement Include?

Your vision statement should include the following elements:

• Purpose: The overarching "why" behind your family’s choices and actions.
• Future Goals: Aspirations for what you want your family to become or achieve.

3. When Should You Create a Vision Statement?

It’s never too early or too late to create a vision statement, but the ideal timing can sometimes  depend on your phase of life:

• Starting a Family: Create a vision as a starting point for your foundation of values and goals.
• In a Transition Phase: Times of change (e.g., moving, job changes, adding new family members) are great opportunities to clarify your direction.
• Feeling Stuck or Disconnected: If your family feels unaligned, a vision statement can help refocus your priorities.

4. Should You Involve Your Kids in the Process?

• Absolutely! Involving your children in drafting and creating the vision statement ensures it resonates with everyone and places a sense of ownership. If you’re looking for additional tips on how to involve your kids, check out our resource on explaining a vision statement to your children here.

5. How Do You Make It Faith-Based?

• To keep your vision statement Christ-centered, include references to biblical principles or scripture that align with your family’s goals.
  • Example: “We seek to glorify God in all we do, and to grow in faith through areas such as love, humility, integrity and servant leadership.” 

6. Should It Be Specific or Broad?

• A balance is key. Your vision statement should be specific enough to feel personal but broad enough to allow growth and adaptability. For instance, “We strive to create a home built on laughter, gratitude, and open doors to everyone” provides direction without limiting how you’ll accomplish those points.

7. Can a Vision Statement Address Challenges?

• Yes! A vision statement can act as a map while navigating through tough times. If your family struggles with communication, include phrases that highlight active listening and understanding.

8. Does It Have to Be Perfect?

• Not at all. The goal is to create a vision statement that reflects your family’s heart and values, not to write something flawless. It’s okay to start small and refine it over time. The pursuit of perfection is what keeps most people from getting started; the best benefit to your family will be when you start and have something to implement, as opposed to waiting until all your wording is picture perfect!

Once you’ve assured these practices are in their proper place for your family’s vision statement, take some time to read up on how you can evaluate the progress and success of your vision statement itself.