I facilitate leadership development workshops and strategic planning sessions for work, volunteer activities, and for my own learning. At the end of most sessions we develop goals. You know, the “SMART” ones – specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound.
The clients usually end up with great goals which are tough but achievable stretches for them to accomplish as individual leaders or as a whole organization. A final document is usually created with a colorful cover page with cool graphics and a dramatic title such as “OUR FUTURE.” They think the hardest work is done now that they have a document in hand after months of tough thinking and planning work.
But, most have found that the first step is often the most difficult. They get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of work ahead of them for their preferred future. They find other compelling work taking precedence. They allow uninvited emails to consume their time.
The first step makes them sweat. Which actually, is a good thing. It means it’s important to them. It’s the work they need to do to improve as a leader. To grow as an organization. It means other people are going to hold them accountable for their many intentions.
This blog feels much like that overwhelming first step. This first contribution might not be the most earth-shattering piece, but at least my blog isn’t blank now.
Come back for more splashes of creativity, insights gained from cool clients, helpful resources to empower yourself and others on your team, and food for thought… no action required.