#019: Start the year as you mean to go on ??

Change always takes longer than we want it to. According to UCL, it takes one person 66 days (up to 10 weeks!) to form a new habit. Scale this up to the number of people in your business and you begin to understand why.?

As we step into the new year, let's focus on setting the stage for impactful and sustainable change in our businesses.?

For those that need a helping hand, here’s a helicopter view over change and the significant actions leaders should be taking in Q1.?

3 short tips:?

1. The power of the pause

That 'great idea' you had over Christmas. Where does it fit into the myriad of initiatives your team is already working on? While ideas are essential, they can also create ‘busyness’ rather than contributing to ‘business’. Take the time to pause and prioritise to ensure any new project aligns with overarching goals.

2. Set SMART objectives

Fewer projects, executed with precision, yield better results than working on lots of things in parallel. Define SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals with clear target completion dates and metrics. This method will ensure a focused and disciplined approach to your strategic objectives throughout the year.

3. Plan regular progress checks

Don't assume that initiatives are progressing just because you've discussed them once. Schedule regular check-ins—at least every six weeks—to review progress, identify roadblocks, and provide necessary support. Consistent follow-up reinforces accountability and gives your team guardrails (ensuring continued alignment with strategic direction).

2 things I have liked?

1. 2023 good news stories

“54 good news stories you may have missed", an annual edition of the Sunday Times magazine. Full of inspiration including how business leaders are navigating the transition to more sustainable businesses. Read my post in full here?

2. Identifying your skill gaps

Chartered Management Institute “82% of managers who enter management positions have not had any formal management and leadership training. They are accidental managers”. This jaw-dropping stat highlights a significant gap in management skills, needed to successfully navigate change programmes – skills such as influencing and leading teams, understanding resistance, strategic alignment and fostering effective communication. Highlighting the importance of identifying the skill-gaps within your business and plugging them with effective, ongoing professional development training.?

1 call-to-action:?

Don't be afraid to call time on initiatives that aren't working. Consciously choose to redirect time and energy towards initiatives that will propel the business forward. In failing fast, we create space for innovation and progress.?

Enjoyed the Newsletter? Forward it to a friend. It only takes 10 seconds, and I'd genuinely appreciate it. Thank you for being part of our community.?

Here's to a year of purposeful change and continued success!?