The clearest way to get something done and execute on an idea is to have a focused and thoughtful plan that considers key questions.
- What is the desired outcome?
- What does success look like?
- Which key risks should be anticipated, and how to prepare for them?
- Who will be affected?
- Am I willing to accept that my plan may need to change?
Each answer will inform the direction of the plan, and plot a course towards an envisioned future.
Looking Ahead, we embrace change and progress. However, we must include the Past and Present in our Future vision. The Past shares valuable lessons of prior successes and failures. Through remembering ‘what was’, we pave the way for an amazing ‘what will be’. The bridge is the Present. Today’s thoughts and awareness are the tools we use to bring our plans to life.
To neglect the Present is to be unaware of those critical issues that can and will influence our Future.
Today’s world is running at a faster pace than ever. Technology changes and evolves daily. Online access blurs geographical boundaries and instantly brings the world together. Progress is amazing, and it definitely isn’t done! Yet, does all of this rapid growth represent a danger to the Present? Perhaps.
We are more connected to those on our social media platforms than those around us. Take a look around the next time you walk through a public area. What do you see?
- People walking with headphones in, either on a call or listening to a podcast.
- Others walking while looking down… texting, reading email, scrolling through Instagram.
- Eye contact is at a minimum, and smiles typically come from the would-be crazy tourist!
Being Present means living in the moment and getting in touch with what is taking place around us. Sometimes, a moment of disconnection can lead to an even more stunningly connected result. By looking up, you might meet a key life partner. By looking immediately ahead, you might avoid a road hazard. By listening to those around you, you might learn a better way to deliver on that amazing plan of yours. Each of these lessons from the Present will lead to an amazing plan for the Future.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” -Ferris Bueller
So where do we go from here? How do we get from Idea to Done? Create that solid plan that pays tribute to that which has already happened, and designs an innovative outcome, all while having true awareness of today’s influences.
It’s easy… We just need to pause for a moment and truly look around.
Photo by Jordan Madrid on Unsplash