essays – Nonprofits

Priorities & Possibilities

I read this phrase recently, and it has stuck with me. It really summarizes strategic planning in a simple way.

Whenever I work with clients on strategic planning, one of the issues that always comes up is focusing on priorities.

This is logical and appropriate, of course. Many times, the reason the organizations need to gather for a longer retreat or planning session is that they’re having trouble “spinning all those plates” every day and really meeting all the “priorities” that they have identified.

We often end up recognizing that some of those things aren’t really priorities after all – at least not ones that will truly support the mission of the organization. This allows us to identify opportunities for other possibilities.

It could be just the opposite, though.

Sometimes all the groups want to talk about is how to implement new ideas. That’s great, too, but not always realistic. If they haven’t addressed the priorities first, they won’t have resources – time, financial, people – to handle the new things.

But dreaming of new ways to accomplish a mission may be the only way to actually grow the organization so it can be successful at an even higher level.
It’s also the most “fun” thing groups can do together – and is often a good way to engage or re-engage individuals in the cause.

You need priorities AND possibilities to really get to the next level.

That’s why I love strategic planning. It brings together both of those – or should – and helps organizations focus on what’s important not just for now but for the longer term.

I’d love to learn how you deal with both of these (or don’t) in your organization. 👇