People and organizations often attempt to chase multiple priorities, objectives, and goals simultaneously. While this approach may seem productive at first, it frequently leads to initiatives that start strong but rarely finish. Resources, time, and attention are constantly pulled from one “priority” to the next, leaving a trail of incomplete targets and frustrated team members. There’s a better way: the power of focusing on one priority at a time.

The enthusiasm built in the strategy and planning session can fade when an organization tries to accomplish too many things at once. Team members switch between projects, keeping them from dedicating themselves to any single one. This fragmentation of effort results in initiatives that remain half-finished, resource allocation issues and inefficiencies.

Multiple priorities dilute focus, making it difficult to achieve significant progress on any front. Instead of building momentum, organizations find themselves constantly starting anew, rarely celebrating successful completion.

The planning process begins by identifying concerns, opportunities and strengths (unique organizational abilities) and setting key objectives for the planning term. That done, the “90-day world” is set with quarterly targets toward a key objective. This increases focus and resource allocation. Each quarter, progress is assessed and, when sufficient, the next priority is set for the following 90 days. Confidence and momentum build as accomplishments add up, clearing the way for four major goals to be completed in any given planning year.

By resisting the urge to multitask on a grand scale, organizations unlock the power of sustained focus. This leads to deeper learning, better performance, and a culture of achievement.

The urge to juggle multiple goals is strong, but it often leads to disappointment and unfinished initiatives. By embracing the power of one, and “the 90-day world”, organizations and individuals can achieve more, experience greater satisfaction, and build a culture where finishing what you start is the norm. Focus is not about doing less, it’s about achieving more by doing what matters most, one step at a time.

For more information and to get started on successful planning for your organization, contact me at joe@ajstrategy.com or visit my website at ajstrategy.com.