Mpactful Messages: Looking Ahead - The Power of Forward Momentum
Last month, we talked about the importance of reflection in leadership—how looking back can uncover lessons that shape the way forward. But here’s the thing: leadership isn’t just about reflection. It’s about movement. It’s about using what you’ve learned to fuel forward momentum and, more importantly, taking action.
So, let’s talk about the other side of the coin: looking ahead, envisioning what’s possible, and taking the steps to make it happen.
The Trap of Over-Reflection
Reflection is valuable, but too much of it can leave you stuck. You know the feeling—analyzing every decision, revisiting every mistake, playing out endless “what if” scenarios. It’s like standing in quicksand: the more you dwell, the harder it is to move.
It’s been said, “The windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror for a reason.” The past is there to guide you, but the future? That’s where the magic happens.
Intention + Action = Results
An intention without action is, well… just an intention. It’s an idea or a thought. But there’s a key piece missing if you want to get any traction. And action without an intention? That’s just busywork.
The leaders who make the biggest impact are the ones who connect the two. They imagine what could be and take intentional steps to make it a reality.
That’s why we created the transformation equation: Intention + Action = Results.
This formula helps leaders connect the two pieces necessary for any kind of transformation. It’s a guarantee that you will have success—you can test us on this!
We often remind teams, “You don’t have to know every step to start. Just take the first one.” Think of it like headlights on a dark road. You can’t see the whole journey, but as long as you keep moving forward, the next part of the path reveals itself.
Momentum Builders
Let’s get practical. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the planning or dreaming phase, these tips can help you build momentum:
Start Small: Break your idea into bite-sized steps. What’s one thing you can do today to move closer to your goal?
Set Deadlines: Nothing kills momentum like “someday.” Make it real by setting a date. “Someday” has never been on any calendar we’ve seen!
Find an Accountability Partner: Someone who’ll check in, cheer you on, and (if necessary) give you the tough love you need to keep going.
Celebrate Wins: If you’ve read our blogs before or follow us on social (hint, hint), you know this is BIG for us! Celebrate every step forward, big or small. Every step is progress—take time to acknowledge and appreciate it.
The Risk of Stagnation
Leadership is about progress, not perfection. Waiting for the "perfect" time or the "perfect" plan often leads to missed opportunities. We’ve all heard stories of leaders who hesitated too long and lost their chance to make a difference. Don’t be that leader.
As we love to say: “Done is better than perfect. Perfect never changed the world.”
Closing the Gap
Looking ahead isn’t just about envisioning a brighter future—it’s about creating it. So here’s our challenge to you: Take one step today. Not tomorrow, not next week. Today.
Write down a goal, make that phone call, schedule that meeting, or send that email. Whatever your step looks like, take it.
Because leaders don’t just think about the future. They build it. Leaders take action when others hesitate, says our friend and mentor, John Maxwell.
What’s Your First Step?
How about listening to our podcast, Mpactful Messages: The “Let’s Talk About It” Podcast?
You can listen to the introductory mini podcast now by clicking here to access on Apple podcasts or listen on your preferred app. Episode #1 debuts TOMORROW, January 7th, and this episode focuses on the quote: "Leaders take action when others hesitate" by John Maxwell. Check it out—we think you’ll love it!
