What to do if your credit union strategic plan seems impossible
Here you are. Almost a dozen weeks into the new year and you are yet to cross off any action items on your strategic plan. Worse, you’re not any close to reaching your new goals for the new year than you were last year. And doubly worse, it’s like Groundhog’s Day. This has been happening year after year.
Aside from me flying out to physically give you a swift kick, there are simple steps you can take to try and start seeing some successes. I’ve gone back and reviewed my notes from dozens of credit union strategic planning session follow-ups to find the common denominators among credit unions who just can’t gain any traction. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Eliminate the excuses. Duh. Seems simple, but as I review my notes excuses are plentiful. “But Covid…” “But staffing…” I call hogwash. Every other credit union (and business for that matter) have been dealt the same blows. Some have used it to get better, and some have used it as excuses to hide behind. Really, if you’re looking for a reason to delay taking action, you will always be able to find one. If you’re looking at those credit unions and businesses who have grown, despite the many excuses at everyone’s disposal, the difference is successful leaders don’t listen to those reasons and excuses. They are coming from the part of you that is afraid to fail, which is the real reason you’re afraid to take action. Stop being fearful, learn what you need to know, and take action.
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