A Story of Strategy Clarity and Direction

What Strategy Isnt

Imagine setting out on a road trip without a map. You have a car full of snacks, a playlist for days, and a final destination, but no idea how to get there. This is what strategy often feels like in the business world—a lot of tools and goals, but a missing link on how to reach them. So, strategy isn’t just a list of things you want to achieve (like goals and metrics) or a bunch of steps (like a roadmap). It’s not just adding new features to your product or assigning tasks to your team. And it’s definitely not just a mission statement about why your company exists. Strategy is the map that shows you how to get to your destination.

When Strategy Goes Missing

Ever felt like you’re working hard but not getting anywhere? That’s what happens when a strategy isn’t clear. People might be doing lots of work, but it feels pointless or disconnected. Projects start feeling random, and goals keep changing like the weather. It’s confusing when you don’t see how your work fits into the bigger picture or why others are doing their tasks. And when goals keep missing the mark, and nobody seems to get why certain projects are important, it feels like hitting an invisible wall. This is a sign you need a better map—a clearer strategy.

Starting with the End in Mind

Here’s a different way to look at it: When you plan a trip, you start by deciding where you want to end up. This idea comes from a book called 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.' It’s like saying, “I want to go to the beach,” and then figuring out the best way to get there. This means thinking about what the beach looks like, what you’ll do once you’re there, and then planning your route, what to pack, and how to make the trip fun and worthwhile. This isn’t just for trips; it’s how we should approach our goals and projects too. Knowing your destination helps you plan better and make sure every step takes you closer to where you want to be.

How to Make a Good Strategy

It Should Be Clear

Think of a strategy like a treasure map. It needs to be clear enough that anyone in your team can follow it. If only a few people know the plan, it’s like having a treasure map that nobody can read. A good strategy means everyone knows where the treasure is and how to get there together.

It Needs to Focus

Imagine if your map leads you to a hundred different places, not just the treasure. You’d be running around, exhausted, and probably never find the treasure. That’s why focusing on a few important things, instead of trying to do everything, helps you reach your goal faster and better.

Visibility is Key

A good map also shows you what to expect on the road ahead. If there’s going to be a mountain or a river, you want to know before you start. Strategy is the same. It helps you see what’s coming so you can prepare and not be caught off guard.

Everyone Should Get It

Finally, imagine if everyone in your car had a different map. You’d probably never make it to the beach. A good strategy is one that everyone understands and agrees on. This way, everyone knows what’s happening and why, making it easier to work together and reach your destination.

What’s Next?

• Identifying Strategic Priorities - think about what’s most important for getting to your destination. What are the big landmarks on your map?
• Translating Priorities into Actions - now, break down those big landmarks into smaller steps. What do you need to do first, second, third, and so on?
• Making a Plan - organize those steps. Which ones do you need to do right away, and which ones can wait? This is your route to the treasure.
• Talking About It - make sure everyone knows the plan and why it’s important. Check in regularly to see if you’re still on the right path or if you need to adjust your route.

Creating a clear, focused, and shared strategy is like having a good map for your road trip. It makes sure everyone knows where they’re going, how to get there, and what to expect along the way. With a good strategy, you’re not just driving around; you’re on a journey to success.