Strategic Plan: Best Practices to Prepare

Strategic Planning Is a Team Sport: Working with a Strategic Planner isn’t about hiring a guru. It’s about building shared clarity and direction. Here’s how to get the most from the partnership. 1. Come With Business Clarity Problem: Strategy work gets derailed by lack of basic clarity. Analysis: If you’re unclear on your business model … Read more

Strategic Plans: 3 Myths That Hold People Back (and What’s Actually True)

Strategy Isn’t a Buzzword. Many teams resist Strategic Plans because they think it’s slow, rigid, or only for big companies. These myths cost time and clarity. Here’s what’s really true. 1. “We Don’t Have Time for a Strategic Plan” Assumption: Planning slows us down. Shift: Lack of planning causes waste and rework. Solution: Start small. … Read more

Strategic Plans: Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

Why Strategic Plans Often Fail: Many leaders think they have a Strategic Plan when what they really have is a list of goals. A true Strategic Plan requires trade-offs, focus, and alignment. When these elements are missing, even the best execution won’t save you. 1. Mistaking Tactics for Strategy Problem: Companies chase short-term wins without … Read more

Core Objectives: Best Practices

Working with someone to create your Core Objectives requires more than just showing up, it requires intention. Practice 1: Know Your Purpose (Even if It’s Fuzzy) Problem: Many founders can’t articulate their deeper purpose. Analysis: That’s okay, what matters is curiosity and openness. Action: Come prepared to reflect. What drives you? What impact do you … Read more

Core Objectives: 3 Myths That Hold Visionary Leaders Back (and What’s Actually True)

Visionary leaders often have extraordinary ideas, but false assumptions can block strategic clarity. Myth 1: “Big visions don’t need structure.” Assumption: If I stay adaptable and fluid, the vision will take shape naturally. Shift: Boldness without clarity leads to chaos. Solution: Structure your vision into three long-range Core Objectives. These become your compass or North … Read more

Core Objectives: Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

Why Core Objectives Matter Without clear long-term objectives, even the most visionary businesses stall. These pitfalls are common, but avoidable. Pitfall 1: Mistaking SMART Goals for Strategic Core Objectives Problem: Many founders default to short-term metrics like revenue targets or product launches. Analysis: SMART goals have a place, but they don’t define direction. They are … Read more