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What Does Done Really Mean Turn Vague Rocks into SMART Ones

Transform Vague Goals into SMART Rocks

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Transforming Vague Goals into SMART Rocks

Have you ever found yourself at the end of a quarter, sitting around the conference table with your leadership team, only to realize that everyone had a different interpretation of what a completed Rock should look like? This scenario is all too common, but there’s a solution: SMART Rocks.

Understanding SMART Rocks

SMART Rocks are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. They provide clarity and direction, ensuring everyone knows exactly what ‘done’ looks like. Let’s explore how to transform vague goals into SMART Rocks with a couple of examples.

Example 1: From Vague to Specific

Consider the Rock: “Sit with admins to look for efficiency improvements.” While the sentiment is clear, the outcome is not. What does ‘done’ look like here? Simply making a list of potential improvements is too vague.

Instead, try this: “Implement three strategies to improve efficiencies for operations.” This version not only focuses on finding efficiencies but also on implementing them within the quarter. Adding a specific number provides a clear target and direction.

Example 2: Adding Measurable Metrics

Another common vague Rock is: “Build pipeline growth.” But how much growth? By one? By 100%?

Revise it to: “Add five qualified builders to the network.” This specific target gives you a clear goal and helps focus your efforts. You might need to reach out to 20 potential builders to achieve this, but the clarity of the target makes it manageable.

The Power of Clarity

SMART Rocks don’t happen by chance. They require thoughtful discussion and clarity. Taking a clarity break or collaborating with a team member can help define what ‘done’ looks like and how to measure it. Once you master this discipline, your Rocks will start to gain real traction.

Need Help with Your Rocks?

If you’re ever stuck with a Rock or need guidance on making it more specific, feel free to jump on my calendar. Let’s work together to ensure your Rocks are SMART and actionable.

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Part II - 4 Questions to Pressure-Test Visionary Thinking

Taming the Visionary: Part II – 4 Questions For Your Arsenal

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Mastering Ideation Sessions with Four Key Questions

In the dynamic world of EOS®, leadership teams often find themselves brimming with ideas and innovations, especially during Level 10 Meetings™. While creativity is essential, it’s crucial to ensure that these ideas align with your organization’s goals and don’t disrupt your current workflow. Here are four essential questions to guide your ideation sessions and keep your team focused on what truly matters.

1. Is This a Shiny Thing?

Before diving into a new idea, ask yourself: Does this align with our goals? Is it critical to our one-year objectives? The Vision/Traction Organizer™ is your compass here. It helps you determine if the idea aligns with your target market, your three-year and ten-year goals, and your core purpose. Use it as your guide to stay grounded and focused.

2. What Issue Is This Idea Solving?

Understanding the problem an idea addresses is vital. Ask: What issue does this solve? Are we adding complexity without reason? Sometimes, the proposed solution might not be the right fit, but it opens up new avenues for discussion. Visionaries often see opportunities that others might miss, leading to innovative solutions. Always question the issue at hand and whether the proposed solution is the best fit.

3. What Will Happen to Our Current Workflow?

Consider the impact on your existing processes. If your team is moving east and a new idea takes you northwest, it requires significant energy and resources. Evaluate whether adopting this change will disrupt your current workflow and how your team will manage this transition.

4. If We Say Yes, What Do We Say No To?

In EOS®, less is often more. If you decide to pursue a new initiative, identify what you will deprioritize to make room for it. With your Rocks and priorities already set for the quarter, it’s essential to maintain focus. Saying yes to something new means saying no to something else, ensuring your team remains aligned and effective.

These four questions are powerful tools during ideation sessions or even during IDS. They help ensure that your team’s creativity is channeled effectively, leading to meaningful change and progress.

Take the Next Step

Need guidance on implementing these strategies or other EOS® tools? Schedule a coaching session to enhance your team’s effectiveness and drive your business forward.

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