Here we are, New Year’s week. Have you thought about your resolutions? So much pressure, right?
Let’s take some of that pressure off. At its core, a resolution is simply a decision. The turn of a new year is a logical and popular time to resolve, or decide, to do something new or different. Sometimes, people resolve to do big things; run a marathon, read a book a week, lose thirty pounds, etc. Those resolutions can often be overwhelming, especially if we don’t have a plan to support our goal. But, we can break down big goals into smaller ones, create a plan, and put those goals within our reach. This applies to both personal and workplace goals alike.
As front line leaders, your 2016 business goals have likely been set for you. An executive team or board of directors has already decided the company is going to grow revenue by x%, reduce costs by x%, maybe expand into a new market or launch a new product. Your supervisor has, hopefully, laid out some expectations for you and your team in support of those company goals. Your job is to take those expectations and create actionable plans with reasonable steps and achievable results.
Don’t be overwhelmed. Think near term to achieve the long term. Think small wins to hit big goals. Think about today, tomorrow, next week, and next month.
For example, today, consider this:
- What can you do tomorrow to help your team understand the company’s goal?
- What can you do next week to support their understanding of their part in that goal?
- What steps can you take in January to help your team brainstorm ideas and commit to plans to support the goal?
- What changes can you implement in February to move in that direction?
- How can you measure progress in March?
Each of these decisions is a resolution. Make the right decisions, develop solid plans, follow through on them, adjust course as needed, and you’ll have a successful 2016. Don’t be overwhelmed. Make a plan and plan to succeed.
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The Tuesday Tidbit is the emerging leader’s weekly source for teambuilding tips, leadership development content, creative ideas and workplace inspiration. To further discuss any of these topics,contact me here and let’s chat!
Photo credit: Carol VanHook with Creative Commons license.
