Strategy Secrets: Leveraging Strategic “Stops”

When we think about our annual plans - or even New Year's resolutions - so often, we focus on new starts.

New projects we'll kick off.
New priorities we'll focus on.
New habits we'll adopt.

New starts can be helpful.

But creating the kind of focused attention that helps us, our teams, and our organizations move in the right direction isn't just about starting or adding things.

One of the most powerful strategic moves you can make as a leader is to decide what you'll stop doing.
What you'll let go of.
What you'll edit out.

It could be a beloved program that was built for a different time.
Or a report that takes hours to compile but hardly anyone looks at.
Or a REALLY great idea you just don't have the capacity to bring to fruition this year.

Intentionally choosing to stop thinking, planning, or working a certain way - and then following through on that choice - is an ongoing practice.

It takes commitment and discipline.
It takes strength to say no over and over again.
It takes belief that the strategy we set is worth pursuing and deserves our investment and attention.

It also takes the willingness to be accountable to ourselves and our teams so that we can stay clear on our shared vision and direction, candid about what's working and what isn't, and committed to addressing the opportunities and challenges that come up along the way.

So, what are you choosing to stop this year? Join the conversation over on LinkedIn.