Can you think of an organization whose team members consistently perform at a high level, especially in stressful situations?
The Navy SEALs are one of the very best at this. Two SEAL commanders wrote a book called Extreme Ownership. They describe how lessons they learned in combat can be applied to running a more successful business.
Most businesses face several challenges on any given day. As new challenges emerge, the pressure builds. The leaders must remain calm and make the best decision possible. People’s livelihoods and financial security are at stake.
Even the most competent leaders will become overwhelmed if they try and solve too many challenges simultaneously. According to the book, the best way to manage multiple challenges is to prioritize and execute.
Based on your company’s primary goal, identify the top priority and communicate it to the entire team. Obtain input from key leaders and team members when possible. Develop a simple solution and focus maximum resources towards executing the plan. It is important to keep the solution simple. The more complicated it is, the more likely it will fail.
Once the top priority has been dealt with, shift attention to the next highest priority item and direct all resources towards its execution.
Maintain situational awareness and recognize other challenges as they emerge. Your priorities can change rapidly, so you must be ready to respond. If your top priority changes, it is imperative you communicate that to the entire team. Allocate maximum resources to deal with this new priority.
Stay a step ahead of potential problems by anticipating likely challenges and developing contingency plans. Communicate the anticipated problems and proposed solutions with the team ahead of time. It will allow everyone to adapt rapidly and effectively, without as much direction from the top.
By prioritizing and executing, you should see remarkable progress. It allows you to achieve your goals faster, and with fewer casualties. Give it a try.
