by John Gross
In my December and January columns, I focused on setting SMART goals and finding the time to work on them. We are now starting the second quarter of the year. How are you doing?
- Have you spent time working on your goals?
- Have you developed a plan to accomplish them?
- Are you measuring progress?
- Or did you do nothing?
Regardless of your answers, it’s time to look at your progress to assess performance, celebrate successes, and identify areas for improvement. This is the time of year to look back and ask: What did I learn and what will I do differently? Use this reflection time to tighten your goals, realign priorities, make strategic decisions, and allocate resources for the upcoming quarter. Adjust quarterly plans if needed to adapt to changing circumstances, priorities, and opportunities.
Once you have reviewed your goals and plans, made changes, and reprioritized, then make sure your scorecard reflects these changes—modified goals, new metrics, deleted metrics, etc.
The last step in your review process is to share an update with everyone in the business. Let them know how ‘we’ are doing and talk about planned changes. Let them know how they will be impacted and encourage them to ask questions so they can understand and keep embracing the goals. Lastly, remember to recognize accomplishments and celebrate successes.
By using a quarterly planning approach, businesses can more effectively manage their annual goals, stay agile in a dynamic environment, and drive continuous progress.
P.S., If you are in the ‘did-nothing’ group, it is not too late to get started!
John Gross is an EOS Implementer who helps businesses achieve Vision, Traction, and Healthy. You can contact John at John@ DrivingChangeInc.com or call 636.667.0579.