Every successful outcome begins with a clear understanding of the desired end result. Intentionality means defining what success looks like in vivid detail. This alignment ensures that energy, resources, and efforts are directed toward High Leverage Activities that drive results, minimizing waste and confusion.
Take the concept of clarity, for example, which is one of the cornerstones of Strategic Acceleration.
Clarity eliminates ambiguity. Clarity also allows for the development of measurable objectives that can guide decision-making and resource allocation.
Engineering success means creating a plan that ensures the fastest, most efficient path to the goal. A plan isn’t just a list of tasks; it’s a strategic roadmap that accounts for potential obstacles, leverages strengths, and maximizes opportunities. This requires:
- Prioritization: Focus on High Leverage Activities (HLAs) that yield the highest ROE. HLAs are the 70% of tasks that produce the best results. For example, streamlining processes or investing in team development, especially those who are hungry to grow, might have a wow impact on overall productivity and results.
- Delegation: Effective delegation expands capacity by distributing work among capable team members, freeing leaders to concentrate on strategic decision-making. Clear communication of expectations and regular follow-ups ensure accountability and progress.
- Execution Over Perfection: Production Before Perfection (PBP) is a principle that I invented years ago which prioritizes action over endless planning. Waiting for perfect conditions often delays progress, while a bias for action fosters momentum and adaptability.
The planning process should also incorporate mechanisms for feedback and iteration. Plans are rarely perfect from the outset, so periodic reviews help refine strategies, address challenges, and adapt to changing circumstances.
While success is engineered through careful planning and execution, it’s important to remain open to serendipity—the unexpected opportunities that arise along the journey. Organizations that excel in execution are better positioned to capitalize on luck because they have the clarity and flexibility to recognize and seize opportunities when they present themselves.
Adaptability complements strategic planning by allowing organizations to pivot when necessary, without losing sight of their long-term goals. This requires a balance of structure and agility:
- Structured Processes: Ensure consistency and repeatability in achieving outcomes.
- Agility: Encourage innovation and responsiveness to changing conditions.
Success isn’t an accident. It’s the result of being intentional about your goals, strategic in your planning, and disciplined in your execution. By engineering success, organizations can bridge the gap between vision and reality, turning aspirations into measurable achievements. While luck and serendipity may play a role, they are no substitute for the clarity, focus, and action required to achieve greatness.
The essence of the message was first shared in Tony Jeary’s most recent newsletter. Tony is the founder of Tony Jeary International. His impressive studio is located in Flower Mound Texas. Tony is a world renown coach and business advisor who helps business leaders get the Right Results Faster.
