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“Plans are nothing; Planning is everything”
Dwight D. Eisenhower
In this fast changing environment, planning and mobility are everything. A well-thought out, long term solution is not as valuable as it used to be. By the time it’s created and perfected the target has already moved, and the plan has failed. But there is a better way! To hit the moving target and succeed, you need to take small, incremental steps in the direction and only worry about hitting the target as late as possible.
The Adjacent Possible
I read a book that changed my life, and it completely changed my perspective on problem solving. Cal Newport, author of So Good They Can’t Ignore You, said that we should always be looking for the “ adjacent possible.” From where you’re sitting right now, what options are around you (adjacent) and what options are possible. This allows you to focus on building your systems — which will make you more accurate — rather than the goal or target. It reduces risk, allows you to change course, gain momentum, and reach the target that’s best for you (and/or your business).
Be Mobile
Why be a catapult when you can be an airplane? The catapult must be set up and aligned perfectly in order to hit the target. But during that time the target could have moved, and what about wind resistance? The airplane, on the other hand, can correct it’s course as it flies. It can turn around and take multiple passes at the target.
Set your sights on the goal, but don’t be laser focused. Take a step back and see the other options. Don’t dive in head first until you are closer to your best option.
“Choose the option with the most options.”
“Plan ahead, but make the decision at the last possible moment.”Derek Sivers
Think Short and Long
In your own job or industry, make sure to brainstorm, craft and present both short and long term solutions. Break your long term goals down into smaller, interim and more manageable goals. Sell these solutions as small bets, even if the team wants to “go big”. These small bets will add up. Come up with solution C as well as solution B (see image above), because once you implement C it might lead to better/optimal/cheaper/happier long term solutions and outcomes. The shortest path from point A to point B is NOT a straight line.
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How do you think about long and short term solutions? How do you feel about small-steps and big-leaps? Feel free to drop me a line.
