The Visionmaker
Preface
My intention in writing the Visionmaker was to inspire the reader to create a life that is deeply meaningful and fulfilling. Perhaps for the first time in modern history, our social problems are becoming greater than our capacity to solve them. Therefore, connecting with our heart's desire has never been more urgent if we are to overcome the dark conditions that threaten our happiness, even our survival on this planet.
For almost three decades, I have been helping corporate executives articulate and manifest their visions at work. As well, I have been providing vision coaching for thousands of people from all walks of life in public workshops that I have offered across North America and around the world.
Intuitively, I felt the time was right for the development of a unique set of tools and practices that allowed each person to follow a path of heart and meaning - in career, relationship, health and well-being and community service.
To accomplish this, I immersed myself for ten years in the study of vision. What I found in my initial research was disappointing. Much of the thinking about this topic is cryptic, abstract and filled with platitudes. That we are supposed to have a vision and pursue it has been made clear. What remained more of a mystery was the how.
The Visionmaker, the first book in a series, is that how. It provides a comprehensive set of practices for envisioning and conducting a unique and meaningful journey in the world. It is practical and pragmatic.
My clients have been working with many of the tools for a number of years already and have found them to be worthy. Like anything worth doing well however, the discipline of Visionmaking requires focus, concentration and practice. With such a commitment, anyone can apply the skills of Visionmaking to positive effect.
Ultimately, it is my hope that the reader will find the support and encouragement necessary to venture forth from the status quo of their own lives into the rich wilderness of direct experience and immersion in the mystery of living.
Patrick O'Neill
Toronto
2008