Eliminate unproductive contextual assumptions
Every decision you make around direction, risk management or how best to implement is based on assumptions. Most times these assumptions are true, but at what point does your planning process challenge the validity of those assumptions? At what point does your strategy review process address whether these assumptions have shifted, part way through implementation?
When we take a long hard look at the assumptions underlying our chosen approach to implementation or even the high-level direction itself, we sometimes find that they are fear based and not fully substantiated. Sometimes, bracing for something in some way brings it into being. We also find that while assumptions may be true, there are unrealized opportunities to change the game in ways that eliminates the apparent risks or creates new opportunities not previously seen.
Visionary plans have to translate into operational terms in order for things to get done, but don’t miss the opportunity to question whether there is a completely new way to approach the situation and create greater value. Intense focus on anything creates blind spots as our focus is drawn away from other things. Belief in anything specifically creates blind spots because our subconscious mind looks for information that supports what we believe. Create a check-point against the assumptions behind your strategy or approach to implementation, sometimes you’ll find a big opportunity hiding in plain sight.