|
|
|
Newsletter
Archives
Previous article: Connecting, Connection, and Connectedness
Next article: Cracked Pots
We are straws in the wind, unless ...
March 25, 2004
Without a plan, we are easily blown around from day to day. A minor change in our environment causes us to lose our balance. We become adrift "in the sea of life."
"Strategy is the big picture, the distant outcome. People who operate from a strategic base think in larger terms and have grander visions of themselves and their lives. They discover order where others find chaos, significance where others find only coincidence." - Shale Paul
In business, one of the reasons a strategic plan is so important is because it causes us to think strategically. We can be ready for the next turn in the road, for the next twist. We have a contingency plan. The more strategically we plan, the more contingencies we have for whatever may occur.
Unfortunately, we don't always think strategically in the other areas of our life. What if we did? How might our lives be different?
As a young Boy Scout who eventually became an Eagle Scout, I took to heart the importance of "being prepared." Thousands of times throughout my life, this single concept has more than saved me-it has given me choice. And having choice in my life is of high value! In my career as a dentist, my clients depend on me to have a strategic plan-and at least one contingency plan-for their dental health. Dentistry being the art and science it is, having a contingency plan pays huge dividends for my clients.
What about a strategic plan for money? We've all certainly felt the effects of the current recession. Did you have a solid financial plan in place before the current recession? Have you noticed the financial devastation of those who didn't? What about those who placed their entire savings in the stock market, hoping the returns would pay for college tuition for their children or for their "retirement"? Were you debt-free? Did you have reserves available? Were you already adhering to a written budget?
Strategic planning is not just for CEO's and Board of Directors. It's for you. It's for me. Having a comprehensive strategic plan for our life does not mean that we cannot be spontaneous, cannot change our minds, or cannot enjoy ourselves. Quite the contrary!
Having a strategic plan allows us freedom . and choice . to experience life relaxed and unhurried, to have the space and opportunity to attend to life's unexpected challenges and opportunities. It gives us peace of mind and calms fears of 'what ifs'.
Coaching point: What is the strategic plan for your life? Have you committed it to paper? Does it contain the elements that are consistent with what you value?
Previous article: Connecting, Connection, and Connectedness
Next article: Cracked Pots
Newsletter Archives
Now you can take a look at some of the back issues and
you’ll see what I have to offer — monthly insight based on
experience on how to move ahead, reach your goals, shift perspective,
and live life to its fullest.
Coaching | Services | Books
& More | About | Resources | Contact | Home
|
|
