Don't Unplan The Planner

"Plans are nothing; planning is everything." - US President Dwight D. Eisenhower

On any successful team there is a blend of various skills and strengths. 

Among the essential skills...planning stands out as a critical component...Not to be confused with Financial Planning.

I do not have a great planner on my team. It is holding me back. 

Having a great business planner on your team is a game-changer. 

However, one of the most common yet counterproductive behaviors in organizations is when team members, or sometimes even leaders, derail the meticulous plans laid out by these ​planning experts. 

I have seen this unfold too many times.​

If you are fortunate enough to have someone on your team who can diligently plan out projects...get out of their way​!!!

A planner doesn’t just create a roadmap​ for projects; they anticipate obstacles, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure that everyone knows their role. 

When someone disrupts these plans, it’s like throwing a wrench into a finely tuned machine. 

The result? Slowdowns, confusion, and unnecessary friction.Great planners bring clarity and direction to a team. 

Steve Jobs once said, "It doesn't make sense to hire smart people and then tell them what to do; we hire smart people so they can tell us what to do." 

Trusting your planners means allowing them to execute their strategies without constant interference.

Planners thrive on structure and predictability; their ability to deliver results hinges on their plans being respected and followed. 

​If you are lucky enough to have a great planner on your team​ here are a few practical steps to ensure ​t​hey can work effectively:

• Clear Communication: Establish clear lines of communication​ and set expectations. Ensure that everyone understands the plan and their role within it.

• Trust and Empowerment: Trust your planners and empower them to make decisions. Avoid the temptation to second-guess or alter plans without thorough discussion.

• Feedback Loop: Create a feedback loop where planners can receive constructive input from the team. This helps in refining plans without derailing them.

• Minimize Interruptions: Protect the integrity of the plan by minimizing unnecessary interruptions and changes. Encourage a culture of sticking to the plan unless absolutely necessary.

Remember, your planners are there for a reason – let them lead the way.​

T​he bottom line is ​simple...don’t unplan the planner​!

Or as the kids say today..."Let them cook!!!"