We want to appear dynamic and ambitious. Instead, it is intimidating and demotivating. However, one household task you need to tackle today is far less daunting than the long list you were handed or created for yourself.
We do it repeatedly. We create lists of to-dos, new initiatives, radical and vast change, and sit back with bewilderment and disappointment as they meet with little enthusiasm beyond our initial sprint and fizzle out. Instead, we have discontentment and incompetence.
If it is success we seek, can we be clear what it looks like, and can we add a dose of realism? Would you instead initiate several ventures to have them fail or focus on one and energize everyone around it to be a triumph? The mistake of many organizations and teams is overambition which can manifest in underachievement. The desire will be present, yet the lack of focus will wear us down. Make it exciting and interesting, and allow all to see whatever it is, but let’s not confuse everyone with so many initiatives. ]
The mark of excellent strategic or operational planning is not one filled with many ideas but one that people act on and accomplish. Set yourself and others for success in action, not ideals.
