Whether implementing a business strategy, getting fit, or saving for a big holiday, we’re full of good intentions.
So why do so many of us fail to turn our intentions into action?
This article in The Conversation suggests that to help us take action, we need to:
Shape environments that nudge you – the authors call it situational factors. An exercise buddy, so you show up at the gym. An automatic savings plan so you don’t have to think about moving money into your holiday account. Put your strategic plan summary onto your computer desktop, so it’s there every time you log on.
Set reminders to prompt you. Create an action plan detailing what you will do and when. Use your calendar to stay on track. Hold regular accountability sessions where you work on the plan, not ‘business as usual’.
Manage your optimism. We tend to overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can achieve in 10 years. Monitor progress – by measuring what matters and keeping track of our actions, we stay on the path to success.
What tips do you have to narrow the gap between good intentions and action?