This is a time of year when many individuals go through changes related to life events including graduations and weddings. Many business leaders use this time to take stock of where things stand versus the goals they set out to achieve for the year.
The middle months of the year are often filled with uncertainty, because most businesses are behind where they expected to be. Owners begin to question assumptions, abilities and strategies. Some seek scapegoats for lack of performance and others view this as a time of frustration and uncertainty, unsure how to proceed.
However, it can be a time of review and revision. From that may come renewed energy and spirit, a new sense of purpose and an opportunity to do things differently. The ultimate objective remains unchanged, however: the achievement of results.
The strategy for doing a midyear review is a formula that includes the “six R’s” (as opposed to the three R’s known to every student) that mean rest, reflection, reviewing, rethinking, refocusing, and renewal. It is a simple formula that will see you to a new way to approach the second half of the year.
The summer months should include a time of rest. Leonardo da Vinci said that “Every now and then go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work, your judgment will be surer!” Use the summer time for taking time off so you can recharge your brain. Working all the time doesn’t bode well for anyone.
Often the summer months are not as hectic as during the first half of the year, so you can use this time to reflect and review what has taken place. This is an important task, because everyone needs to gain some perspective. da Vinci further stated that “… Since to remain constantly at work will cause you to lose your power of judgment.” Tackle the task by taking a piece of paper and dividing it in half. On the left side list the things that have been working, and on the right side list those that aren’t. Next to each, write why they are working or not. Review this list after some time has passed and you will gain some perspective that was missing previously.
When we gain this understanding, it allows us to rethink what we are trying to do, what our goals are and we can measure to see if our approach is successful or not. Sometimes we need to seek outside help to see if others have another way that might be better suited to our objectives. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance because you might be surprised at what you hear. Don’t be afraid to see how others from other industries do things. Don’t be afraid to think beyond your own abilities. “Not failure, but low aim, is a crime” according to Lowell.
Once we rethink what we are trying to do, it is necessary for us to refocus on the ultimate objective. According to Gary Ryan Blair, The Goals Guy, “Achievements and accomplishments do not happen accidentally. They are the results of clearly defined goals acted upon until completion. Goals determine what you will or will not become or accomplish.” Take the time to write down your goals.
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The final step in the process is to renew your commitment to getting the job done. The strongest tool available is to orally commit to telling others what you are going to do. By putting your reputation on the line, and putting yourself out there, you can accomplish what you set out to do at the beginning of the year.
