An effective and positive vision for change must be authentic and inspiring to gain buy-in from staff and stakeholders. The foundation of an authentic vision is the leader's own core values. By first clarifying and articulating their personal and professional values, the director establishes the "why" behind the proposed change. This provides a moral and ethical compass for the vision, making it more compelling, trustworthy, and sustainable. All subsequent actions, including planning and implementation, flow from this value-based vision.

A. supporting desired behaviors. This is a crucial step in reinforcing and sustaining change, but it occurs during the implementation phase, after the vision has already been established and communicated.

C. eliminating unwanted behaviors. This is a corrective action taken during the change process. It is a response to actions that misalign with the new vision, not the first step in creating it.

D. planning to eliminate barriers. Identifying and planning to overcome obstacles is a critical part of strategic planning. However, this planning happens after the vision (the goal) has been clearly defined.

1. Pratt, C. W., Gill, K. J., Barrett, N. M., & Roberts, M. M. (2014). Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Third Edition. Academic Press. In Chapter 19, "Program Administration," the text emphasizes the leader's role in creating a culture based on a clear vision and values. It states, "The leader’s role is to articulate the vision and values of the organization and to create a culture that supports the mission" (p. 428). This highlights that articulating values is integral and foundational to establishing the vision.

2. Farkas, M., & Anthony, W. A. (Eds.). (2006). Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practice. Boston University, Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation. In discussions on transformational leadership within rehabilitation settings, the text underscores that leaders must "inspire a shared vision." The process of creating this vision begins with the leader's own beliefs and values, which are then communicated to inspire others. This principle is detailed in sections on program leadership and management (e.g., Chapter 12).

3. Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2017). The Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations (6th ed.). While a general leadership text, its principles are foundational to management training in healthcare, including psychiatric rehabilitation. The first practice of exemplary leadership, "Model the Way," begins with the commitment to "Clarify values by finding your voice and affirming shared ideals." This precedes the second practice, "Inspire a Shared Vision," demonstrating that clarifying values is the essential first step.