There’s a certain type of small-business owner or small-enterprise leader who stands out among the grow-at-any-cost organizations, those "maximum profit first" organizations that dominate the headlines — and these same small-enterprise owners are often the ones left standing after the financial boom hits bottom. They’re the owners who use their vision — not just a financial goal — as a compass, and in the process create livable jobs, respectful work environments, and contribute to a greater quality of life in their community.

These big-vision lifestyle entrepreneurs aspire toward a more meaningful livelihood, in which success is measured by qualitative results and making a positive contribution to their community, as well as seeking financial stability; and they reap the internal and external rewards allowed by a more meaningful vision-in-action (versus just a vision-in-talk). Want to see what learnings you can put to use for your own "big-vision lifestyle" and big-vision work? Then introduce yourself to the concept of big-vision small enterprise!

Adapted from Jamie Walters’ highly acclaimed book, Big Vision, Small Business (CEO Refresher’s Best Book of 2001), this tip sheet offers how-to’s on becoming a big-vision entrepreneur. (Look for the updated, expanded paperback edition of Big Vision, Small Business from Berrett-Koehler Publishers in November 2002!) For more information about Big Vision, Small Business, see the link below.

• Turning vision into action

• What are the elements of culture?