Strategies in Action

Let’s run through a couple of examples:

I need to charge my running watch before leaving early the next morning. How will I remember to put it back on my wrist and not leave the house without it on? ACTION: I will put my water bottle in the same location as the charger, in fact, I will rest the watch on the water bottle. That is strategic!

I have an early morning meeting. It is 15 minutes before I usually arrive. How will I make sure I’m on time? ACTION:  I will set several reminders on my phone that is near me when I’m getting ready. That is strategic!

My feet get sweaty during the day. I hate that feeling. ACTION:  I will bring sandals to wear at the end of the day when traveling home. That will work!

I have an article to read that is related to my work. I think it is going to be useful information. ACTION: I will take notes in a place that I can easily find again (probably on my laptop in a shared drive). I will make sure to file my notes and the article in a spot that I can access at my next meeting with my team. My team will appreciate that!

I always seem to forget to take something from my home with me when meeting someone. ACTION: I will place my bag in the same spot (the bench by my garage door) and have it packed the evening before the appointment. That should help if I use this strategy consistently!

So, the next time you are hitting a barrier with something that could be turned into a strategic routine, consider taking yourself through the process. 

Is it more work? Yes. 

Is it worth it? You decide, but usually…yes. 

As one of our 2022 Springer graduates said, “In high school, I’m going to make success happen with all of my strategies”.