Speed Meets Strategy: What Fighter Pilots Can Teach Scaling CEOs

As we step into 2025, I’ve chosen a word to guide me through the year: Intention. It’s more than a goal—it’s a mindset, a way to ensure every decision I make reflects what truly matters. To keep it front of mind, I’ve engraved "Intention" on a silver Pandora charm I’ll wear every day as a personal reminder.

If you’re a business owner in growth mode, you know how quickly life can get overwhelming. Scaling doesn’t just mean more opportunities—it often means more complexity, more decisions, and more fires to put out. That’s why intentionality is so powerful.

One of the most practical tools I’ve found for making intentional decisions—especially in the middle of chaos—is the OODA Loop. Developed by U.S. Air Force Colonel John Boyd, this decision-making framework is used by fighter pilots to stay clear-headed and focused when the stakes are high. Here’s how you can use it to tackle your business challenges in 2025:

Step 1: Observe

First things first: step back and take a look around. What’s really happening in your business? Where are the bottlenecks? What’s draining your energy?

I once worked with a client who felt completely stuck. They were so busy juggling day-to-day operations that they couldn’t see what was really going on. When we paused to assess, it became clear their team wasn’t aligned on priorities—and it was costing them time and trust. By observing, we found the problem hiding in plain sight.

Step 2: Orient

Next, it’s about understanding your context. Are you seeing the situation clearly, or are you stuck in your assumptions?

I’ll be honest—this step has been a game-changer for me. Early in my career, I assumed every business owner prioritized strategic planning. Then I met client after client whose success came from gut decisions. That’s when I realized we often lean on what feels familiar, even if it isn’t serving us anymore.

Take a moment to ask yourself:

• What’s working, and what’s just a habit?
• Are my actions aligned with my bigger vision?
• Am I leaning on my team’s strengths—or trying to do it all myself?

Step 3: Decide

Once you’ve got clarity, it’s time to act with intention. Pick one area to focus on—just one. Don’t try to fix everything at once.

I remember working with a business owner who felt paralyzed by all the competing demands on their time. Together, we chose one focus area: streamlining their client onboarding. That single decision didn’t just save time; it boosted their team’s confidence and turned clients into raving fans.

Step 4: Act

Now comes the fun part—taking action. This step is all about testing your decision and learning from the results. Think of it as a pilot project for your business.

I learned this lesson the hard way. Years ago, I launched a new service without gathering enough client feedback first. It didn’t go as planned. But through that "failure," I found the insights I needed to reshape my business into what it is today—focused, intentional, and built to serve overwhelmed business owners like you.

Start 2025 with Clear Direction

Here’s the truth: scaling your business doesn’t have to feel chaotic. The OODA Loop is a simple, powerful way to make better decisions. Combine it with the right support system, and you can create a business that feels aligned with your values and goals.

That’s why I developed the Compass Framework—a tool to help business owners like you:

• Spot blind spots and opportunities
• Get crystal-clear on your priorities
• Build systems that drive sustainable growth

?? Let’s uncover your roadmap for 2025 together. Grab your Profit Pulse Diagnostic here today (https://www.angelasedran.com/profitpulse)—your first step toward running your business with clarity, confidence, and yes, intention.

Here’s to a 2025 filled with intentional growth, meaningful decisions, and a lot less stress!

Angela

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