Planning is a skill and an art which takes a lifetime to master. It is a process of determining what our goals are and how we will get there. Planning is important as it helps us identify what we want to achieve and makes us decide clearly an concretely what we need to do in order to attain our vision. There are many things that people plan within their lives every day. Planning can be as small and simple as planning what you need to get done tomorrow or it can be as big as planning your next holiday, your dream house, a wedding or that future business that you’ve always wanted to bring to life.
There are four main types of planning; operational, strategic, tactical and contingency. Operational planning is typically applied to single use or ongoing plans. Strategic planning is all about the why and involves the ‘big picture’ and long term plan, it is the foundational aspect and involves your vision, mission and values. Tactical planning is all about the what and involves numerous specific and focused short-term plans. They break strategic plans into actionable chunks. Lastly, contingency planning is used in circumstances that require a change and is essential in moments when change can’t be foreseen.
When it comes to planning, whether it be for business, a holiday or just for tomorrow there are many different approaches you can use, some of which include: SWOT based traditional, appreciative inquiry, design thinking and so many more.
The type of plan you want will guide your decision as to which approach will work the best for the outcome you desire. However, with any planning approach, there is a basic process to follow. This generally involves the following six steps;
Step 1: VISION – Define your vision.
What is your vision for this plan? What do you want it to look like? Who will it involve? What do you aspire for this to be? Write down your vision statement, make it clear and defined.
Step 2: MISSION – Define your mission.
What is your WHY?
Step 3: SITUATION – Define your situation.
Look at and understand your current situation. Identify what and who it may need to include.
Step 4: GOALS – Define your goals
What are your goals for this plan?
What are the long-term goals and the short term goals? Write all your goals down, get clear on them and set timeframes.
Step 5: STRATEGIES – Define your strategies
What is your long term plan to achieve your desired objectives? What do you need in order to put this plan into place? What tools do you need?
Step 6: ACTIONS & TASTICS – Define your actions and tactics
Write down your smaller, more focused action plan that supports your overall vision and put it into action. Break each element down into achievable steps and reward yourself when you reach them.
So what is your plan this month? Are you planning to go on a holiday? To get promoted in your career? Begin a family? Move to a new place? Plan a wedding? What is it that you plan to do in the next week, month or year? I challenge you to think about what it is that you want in the near future and then take the time to sit down and plan it. Use the above six step basic approach to get planning for that whatever it is you’ve always wanted. Whether it is your health plan, your next holiday, your dream house, or your plan for the month! Whatever it may be, big or small, define your vision, your mission and your goals. Outline your plan for it and set yourself a timeframe to complete it. Then spend everyday envisioning yourself living in that moment and bring your plan to life!
