I think we can all agree 2020 has not been the year we planned for. As we closed out 2019, we had vision boards, journals, 20/20 focus and great expectations for 2020. Then COVID-19 hit out of nowhere and the rest is, as they say, “is history.”
It’s time to get back on track and create our winning strategy and success plan for 2021 and October is the perfect time to get started.
We know where we’ve been, now let’s determine where we want to go and how we’re going to get there.
“If you don’t know where you’re going, you are certain to end up somewhere else.”
– Yogi Berra
You might ask, why do I need a strategy? Is it worth taking the time to establish goals and create the tactics to obtain them?
A strategic plan is a vision of your destination. It shows exactly what’s needed to get you there.
Let’s look at five reasons why having a strategic plan is important to your success.
1. Planning provides focus and direction A strategic plan is a clear view of your goals and the tactics needed to make your goals a reality. It also allows you to see where you want to go over the long-term as well as assist you in being proactive and not reactive.
2. Know your strengths and weaknesses Creating a strategic plan allows you to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Are you working on your strengths and either hiring against your weaknesses or working to enhance them training or mentoring?
3. Get everyone on the same page and moving in the same direction Your strategic plan allows each team member to have a clear understanding of their responsibility and role to achieve organizational goals and make the best use of everyone’s talents.
4. Resource allocation is vital to be effective and productive This helps to allocate resources appropriately--whether it be time, people or finances. It assists in determining what financial choices should be made now as opposed to in the future.
5. Make conscious decisions to focus on the goals at hand Having a strategic plan keeps your attention on the priorities outlined. You’ll find it easier to say no to things that will take your focus, time and resources away from the goals at hand.
Creating your strategic plan can be overwhelming, however, breaking it down one step at a time will make it easier and more manageable.
Check out my four step process to creating a plan. (This is the same process I use with my clients and yes, this process works when you work it.)
Do a brain dump. This allows you to get all thoughts and ideas on paper as well as helps in organize thoughts.
Identify 3-4 ideas to accomplish?
Prioritize ideas in the order you want to accomplish them.
Create the winning strategy by asking these three questions:
What are my goals? Make sure goals are SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound.
How will I achieve these goals? Exactly what has to happen (strategies and tactics) in order for me to accomplish my goal?
When will I do the work? (Remember what doesn’t get scheduled does not get done!)
If you haven’t already done so, take the time to map out your 2021 strategy.
Need assistance creating your 2021 Strategic Plan? Let’s talk, schedule a complimentary discovery call today!