Growing up, my family didn’t travel much. But when we did it was an adventure. Dad was smarter and wiser than his eighth grade education evidenced. On the road I would ask him the typical kid question “Are we there yet?” In his wisdom he would give me a CAT, “No son, but we’ll be at the top of Strait Mountain in a couple of minutes.” I loved the view. You could see forever. Interest peaked, eyes strained to see, and we were there, right at the top of Straight Mountain.
Every time I asked that question dad had another CAT answer. CAT was the next point of interest to measure the trip. It catalyzed our movement step by step toward the end destination. Each CAT measured one point that moved us toward the big goal. His wisdom made the trip fun
It’s the same in business. We set the annual destination…the big goal. We do it with great expectation and we set out on the journey with success in mind. In the beginning our interest is peaked, our energy is strong. In no time however, the busyness of daily urgencies saps our energy…bills to pay, the unexpected, staffing, payroll, hiring, unhappy clients, all the urgencies of business. Months pass and we’re faced with another average year? Why? We missed the CATs…those small, measurable, weekly attainable action steps that move us to the big goal.
Put into action my dad’s CAT wisdom. It’s not the answer all, but it is a key. When setting the magnanimously important goals for the year, be sure to determine the CATs along the way…the measurable, attainable catalysts that move us toward the goal. Record them, talk about them, chart them, celebrate them week by week. CATs are the actions that keep your team fired up and in the game. They are the points that move your business toward the big goal.
Lead your team in planning their CATs. Lead each team member measuring his/her success each week. Visualize the achievements. Celebrate the achievements.
My dad knew. Measure the journey in CATs…small steps that are measurable, attainable. They lead to success in the journey. They lead to success in business. Your business growth is measured by the CATs.
About the Author:
Bob is Awake’s Director of Strategic Relationships. He has 20 plus years expertise in executive sales, marketing, and administration. He has made powerful personal and organizational impact through public speaking, teaching, funding development, and large-scale event coordination. He is an accomplished motivational speaker and trainer and has authored training programs and manuals related to organizational growth and member involvement.
bob@awakeconsulting.com
