As we wind down 2019, your organization has probably given some thought to what you want to accomplish in 2020. Perhaps you are working through a longer strategic plan or you have a shiny new plan that you are excited about full of goals you want to accomplish by December 31, 2020. Now that you have your vision for 2020 (and maybe a champagne toast to celebrate) it is time to get to work on meeting these goals. Here are three roadblocks to consider that could derail your 2020 goals:
1. Not Having the Right Goals
The concept of “SMART” goals is cliché to some, but it remains a powerful concept and tool. To set yourself up for success, make sure your 2020 goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound.
In addition to the SMART guidelines, you should also add the criteria of evidence-based and passion-backed. Making sure your goals are supported by data (member needs assessments, focus groups, etc.) and ensuring there is passion for the initiative amongst leadership sets your goals up for success.
2. Shiny Object Syndrome
New ideas and opportunities are bound to come your way throughout the year. It is tempting to seize every opportunity; however your resources are finite. Saying “yes” to something new is saying “no” to something in your existing 2020 strategic plan. Evaluate new ideas and opportunities against your existing plan and only pursue them if they complement your current trajectory or if something has changed that warrants reevaluation of your goals.
3. Tyranny of the Urgent
It is likely that your organization will face problems, issues and perhaps even a crisis in the coming year. These bumps in the road can shift your focus away from your strategic goals and it can be hard to get back on track.
Make sure these issues don’t keep you from meeting your goals. To do this, develop a crisis communication plan to streamline the process of dealing with crisis, dedicate time at every board meeting to talk about your strategic goals (not just to solve problems or talk about issues), and keep a detailed tracking of the progress made toward your 2020 goals.
Keeping these three challenges in mind as you ring in the New Year will make your 2020 goals stick. To learn more about how to keep your strategic plan on track, download our free e-book: How to Prevent Your Strategic Plan From Failing.