NWV Brief 6: If You Can Hold a Vision

Dear Founder,

This week, I’m sharing a reflection inspired by Kipling’s If—, reimagined for founders. Hoping you find the reminder you’ve been looking for.?

If— (The Founders Version)

If you can keep your vision when all around you Doubt or dismiss what only you see through; If you can stay aligned, trusting only purpose within, Yet welcome counsel from those who see inside;

If you can walk the line of courage and doubt, With strength that’s silent, never shouted out; If you can show kindness still, while leading bold and true; Serving the mission and all who walk beside;

If you can hold a vision, yet not be ruled by vision’s call,? And shape your ideas, yet not let ideas stall If you can face both wins and setbacks near, And meet them both with courage, not with fear;

If you can bear to see your vision altered, Twisted by those who would see your purpose falter, Or witness the unintended cost you pay,

Yet still choose to build anew each day; If you can endure the journey, becoming anew, To build again and again, with each version of you;

If you can embrace both triumph and pain, Out grow past selves and friends without disdain;

If you can face the lows that few will know, And ask the questions most would leave alone; If you can press on when others let go, Sustained by a force that speaks to you alone,

If you can stay close to those you serve and lead, Without being swept by every need; If you can walk with giants, yet still relate To the people you serve and elevate;

If you can find your worth from within alone, ? Keeping connection without losing your own; If you can fill each precious minute With creation, impact, and purpose within it;

Yours is a legacy that time can’t sever, And—what’s more—you’ll be a Founder forever.

With purpose, vision, and appreciation,

Brooke Sherwood