Let’s start by acknowledging that, no matter how hard we try, there will always be challenges to address and a need to be proficient in reacting to situations we had not planned for. There is a real cost to having to react to a challenge that presents itself. The initial distraction from the intended plan or outcome takes place first. The Oh No! We must deal with this, and the associated ramifications begin to take hold in our minds. When this happens, most forward progress slows or comes to a complete stop. So cost #1 is the stoppage of the current time cycle of the project you are working on. That time is not typically made up. Cost #2 is the delay in the next project or steps, which ultimately slows progress and is costly in time. Time equates to dollars, and thus, it incurs more expense.
So, has this caught your attention? We plan to develop a strategy to achieve the best outcome based on the information available at that time. We also plan so that when the challenge presents itself, we already have a clearer picture of the potential touch points that will need to be considered when replanning or reacting to the challenge. The planning does have an initial cost, but it is proactive in reducing future expenses should an issue arise. We can package it this way – Proactive = 1x and Reactive = 1x times X(s).
There is an odd and costly belief by some individuals that we have done this before, so there is no need to plan out our approach to achieve the best outcome. Just do it the same way the last one was accomplished, and the same results will happen. – WRONG! Just as there are differences in each person we meet, there are differences in each situation we encounter. It is true that many, if not all, of the factors are the same; however, each one has its own unique set of nuances. The list of potential nuances is so lengthy and diverse that a book of items could be crafted over time for each industry and company in the marketplace. This is where real-world experience and intellectual knowledge come together. Having a solid knowledge base to build on is a great starting point. Incorporating the daily work experiences to refine the knowledge and apply it to the real world is a whole new level of contribution. One without the other can be a costly gap in the best results for the organization.
This week, as you work on your business rather than assuming a role in it, take time to plan the next best steps to achieve the desired outcomes for the day, week, month, and so on. Your investment will ultimately be returned to you, not only in saved dollars but also in reduced stress and organizational confusion, and possibly even a decrease in business chaos.
At JKL Associates, we have assisted leaders in transitioning from reactive approaches to strategic alignment for over 30 years. It is a proactive investment to contact JKL Associates to discuss your business dynamics and determine if a Promise Guide Engagement would be a productive fit. Contact us at (313) 527-7945 or (407) 984-7246
Journey On!
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QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS – EMAIL US AT PARTNERS@JKLASSOCIATES.COM OR CALL OUR OFFICES – MI AT (313) 527-7945 FL AT (407) 984-7246
Celebrating 30 years of Delivering on “Promises”
