The Old Ball and "Change"

Think of strategic change as a very big ball moving through space. Once you point the ball in the right direction and get it rolling, it will move in that direction.

In order for the ball to end up where you want it to be, you have to make sure you point it in the direction you intend it to go. Take your time and make sure you understand how it is you came to the decision that the ball needs to be pointed in the direction you've chosen, and indeed how it is that direction is the "right one". In other words, do your homework first before you start the ball rolling. Keep in mind that once you get the ball rolling, it is difficult to stop it or return it to its original starting point.

Have a look at the path ahead to see what obstacles, barriers, bumps and other impediments exist that may thwart or impede the movement of the ball on its intended path. Make a plan to deal with those impediments when you meet them (and you will) and use the plan you have developed when you do meet them.

Some make plans and then put them on the shelf. USE THEM! It takes far less energy and thought to implement a pre-formed plan than to "fly by the seat of your pants". In business, it also avoids knee-jerk issue management style interventions which almost always results in burn-out and lead to poor, stop-gap, non-strategic decision-making. You'll have plenty of issues to manage once the ball gets rolling, so simplify. Don't go looking for trouble from the start.