The Windscreen and the Rear-View Mirror

As we move toward the end of the calendar year, many individuals are looking forward to a break or holiday of some type, a chance to wind down before getting back into the groove in the New Year.

Why we need the mirror.

Whilst only about 5% of the size of the windscreen, the rear-view mirror is essential for us to view what has occurred and where we have been. Although we can’t change this, it provides us with an opportunity to reflect upon the past – our wins and learnings.

2020 has provided more challenges to individuals and businesses than we were prepared for. Yet, there are learnings and take-aways that need to be processed, before we declare the year over and look to a bright 2021.

Before we decompress, consider the value of review tools and questions for you, your team and/or business.

• List 3 successes for yourself, your team/business from this year
• Did you initiate any projects this year which will require more attention in the year ahead?
• What were the key challenges you faced this year?
• What learnings or lessons can you take from this year?
• What professional and/or personal goals did you set this year, and to what extent were they achieved?

Now, for the windscreen.

Once you have reviewed the year just gone, it’s time to look ahead. In addition to any goals and vision of the team, there is the need to plan and prepare your course for the year ahead. This is the time to grab your diary and the calendar to fix some dates for events, projects and key meetings. Come prepared for this planning session with an open mind which is clear of bias and enthusiastic about what can be achieved.

Some questions and prompts to get you started;

• Construct a list of business and team goals for the year ahead
• Set some personal goals that are admirable and worthwhile
• What is a behaviour or skill that you’d like to further develop?
• How can the team/business further develop in the coming year?
• What support or assistance can you tap into which can help you achieve your 2021 objectives?

The windscreen and rear-view mirror is used here as a metaphor for reviewing and planning within your team or business. It’s also a useful way to incorporate past experiences and learnings into your future journey.

Here’s to a great year ahead for you and your people.

Postscript: Hear from TMSG Founder, Shane Ward, on his strategies for planning for a successful 2021 in our webinar this Wednesday, Dec 2. Head to our Events Page to register.