Priority is Action: Beginning the process of prioritization

Priority isn’t eloquently spoken or carefully written words. Priority isn’t an intricate flow chart or an expressive illustration. Priority isn’t a detailed rank-ordered, weighted average list. Priority isn’t what we wish to do or hope others will do with us or for us. Priority is action.

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Beginning the process of prioritization

In the next few newsletters, we will delve into the three pivotal components of priority. Let's start by focusing on the first component, which probably won’t shock you to learn is…prioritization.?

Prioritization involves determining the relative importance or urgency of each goal among a set of high-priority items. To achieve this, we evaluate each item against specific criteria or factors and consider the potential consequences of not completing each task within the given time frame.

One commonly used approach for prioritization is a ranking system, where items are assigned numerical values or rankings based on their importance and urgency. For instance, items may be ranked from 1 to 5, with 1 denoting the highest priority and 5 the lowest.

Alternatively, a decision-making matrix can be employed to evaluate items against predefined criteria. Each item is assessed against each criterion, and scores are assigned based on how well they align with each criterion. Subsequently, items are ranked based on their overall scores, with the highest-scored items being given top priority.

In my book, Priority is Action, we explore additional methods for prioritization and discuss the advantages of choosing one method over another. Regardless of the approach used, maintaining clarity and consistency in applying the evaluation criteria is vital for effective prioritization. This ensures that the most important items receive the attention they deserve and that resources and time are allocated efficiently.

With the first component of prioritization completed, we now possess a prioritized list of items. However, it's important to note that this ranking does not imply immediate action on each item. The highest priority items are expected to be addressed first, but the order of execution is yet to be determined.

Stay tuned as we progress further and delve deeper into the fascinating realm of prioritization.

Make sure to get the book, Priority is Action: 7 Principles for Better Strategies, Decisions, and Outcomes, now available.