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“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” – Tony Robbins

Tossing around ideas, but haven’t officially put pen to paper. One of the best ways to get started is to set goals. This is the first step in making things happen in the new year.

Here are a few thoughts on how to get started:

Host A Brainstorming Session (or sessions) – Consider forming a committee that includes both key stakeholders as well as your shining stars within operations to brainstorm ideas on how the organization may improve efficiency, overcome adversity, or just create a more positive work environment for employees. Set some ground rules ahead of time. This is an accepting environment. ALL ideas are welcome no matter how silly they may seem. There is no judgement in this room. Sometimes the silliest idea turns into a solid goal later on. The ides is to throw out anything that comes to mind for review and consideration AT A LATER DATE.

Review and Set Goals – Now that you have some ideas to consider, take a good look at those that jump out at you and create solid, attainable goals. You’ll want to include both small “quick hit” initiatives so that you can see the fruits of your labor quickly as well as a few core longer-term projects for the year. This is a good time to engage any outside resources that may be needed to help with scoping the project, estimating hours/budget and providing a realistic timeline. You may have a budget in mind, but that may not align with the actual effort it will take to complete the project.

Prioritize – Once you have a list of tasks and the associated budget/timeline to achieve them, you can start to set up your project roadmap for the year. Consider those departments/resources who are impacted by the projects. Is accounting a key stakeholder? If so, you may want to avoid year-end or tax season. Take these limitations into consideration when mapping out your year. Be sure to keep the holidays in mind. While a Jan 1 start date sounds appealing, your staff likely won’t be eager to put in overtime over the holidays.

Now that you have a plan in place, the important thing is to stick to it. Share your goals not only with the key stakeholders and your committee members, but with the whole organization. The more they know about what is to come and the benefit they will experience from the changes, the more buy-in you will have throughout the year.

JDR is here to help. We can help facilitate planning sessions and/or work with you to scope and estimate the projects and set a roadmap for the year. AND, schedule a discovery call with JDR today and receive $10 OFF per hour on your project quote. (Offer ends January 31, 2023. Quote valid for 30 days.)