I offer an alternative to the more traditional way of thinking about goal setting. If the last three years have taught us anything, its that things can change almost in an instant. This makes it difficult to anticipate the future or plan for the long-term. It is important for companies to have long-term strategic goals and a clear direction on where they are going and how they will get there, however planning shorter term, in 90-day increments, give leaders more flexibility and an opportunity to focus on what’s currently important. It also allows them to focus on what’s impacting the business now, without becoming distracted. Planning only a 90-days ahead, can be highly motivating for leaders and their teams. Focusing on short-term needs of the business also builds goals that are easier to achieve and provide an opportunity to celebrate successes more often, along the way.
Because we in an uncertain business climate, many companies really can’t predict where they will be a year from now. 90-day goals keep leaders and their employees focused, with the real prospect of making a meaningful impact. Planning three months at a time, if done well, gives teams a chance to focus on where business is coming from, as well as, make any adjustments to plans, as they see things changing.
Planning and achieving 90-day goals also gives leaders the opportunity to celebrate small wins – which can be very motivating and can create an even greater feeling of engagement- particularly for the Gen X and Gen Z’s they are leading! Leaders can set the goal, achieve it, and recognize the positive impact with their teams, and with the organization; 90 days is enough time for leaders to accomplish something impactful and meaningful!
Here are Six Steps for Short Term Goal-Setting
- First, try to only focus on 2-3 goals for the 90-days.
- Determine what the needs of the business will be and what can really be accomplished in a 90-day period
- Challenge yourself by asking whether you are confident enough about where the business is right now, to set and accomplish these goals
- Identify where your biggest challenges are that might come up and what you can do to mitigate or overcome them
- Create “actionable” steps for each goal you set
- Make certain you and your team are setting aside time to work on each goal and know how you will hold yourselves accountable
Goal setting every 90-days not only gives leaders the adaptability to pivot if business circumstances change, and to address real-time needs, but it allows them to be more focused and give the business the attention needed, in order to make certain they can achieve them.
To learn more about how leaders can put 90-day goal setting into practice, or more about other services that can help your business thrive, please visit our website, The Center for Leadership Excellence at www.cleindy.com or contact Patty Prosser at pprosser@cciindy.com and at 317-264-4178.