Strategy

/ Sheila

I’ve written a strategic plan for a local clinic. I never did that before. I’ve written a lot of things, but this was a first.

Well, Alaska gives you opportunity. A lot of it comes from showing up. You know, being available and actually in the state. Some jobs you can get because you’re here. That’s how I fell into this one. Well, there was a little more to it than that, but being present definitely helped.

Anyway, the experience made me think about my own strategic plan. Or rather the lack of one. I’ve had goals, dreams, hopes. But I never created a strategic plan for myself. Maybe that’s why I find myself running in circles, consumed by commitments that aren’t really taking me anywhere…keeping me afloat financially, filling my time…but not going in a definite direction.

I weave in and out of this mindset, staying busy with life, needs, family, other. Often, for weeks at a time, I push introspection aside. I’m not one to drown in my own thoughts. And then, smack! There it is again…the “what am I doing?” conversation runs circles in my head. This is not about unhappiness. It is about uncertainty. I’m uncertain, and have been for a long time, about the path we’re on. I’ve spent a lot of time, the past couple of years, thinking about the “next.” But I still haven’t found the answer. I struggle with that. Shouldn’t I just know what’s right, what’s best? I’m waiting for some instinct to kick in, but it hasn’t yet. I don’t think it’s going to, and maybe I’ve waited long enough for inspiration to hit. I’m not inspired. But I am a writer. It feels good to claim that for myself. To add that to the list of who I am. It comes a bit more naturally, these days, when my income is largely tied to that effort.

Strategy is important for an organization. And people too.

Well, well. I’ll have to think about that one. And maybe write a plan for myself.

“Life has no remote…get up and change it yourself.”

10 thoughts on “Strategy”

  1. Hmm…a plan. I’ve never really thought about having a “strategic plan” for my life. But sometimes I feel like I’m just rambling along. I know God is in control, but there are plenty of times where I think I’m aimlessly wandering.

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    • I frequently feel that way…wandering! I’m seriously going to try this approach. Maybe writing out a formal plan will give me some insight to what I really want. I believe God works in our lives…but does he work with and through our decisions, or is there really a specific plan for each of us? I can never fully answer that for myself. ~ Sheila

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  2. I think as we start getting older…we do reflect on our lives…and those desires we had when we were young…I say…if you have the gumption to get up and do it…go for it…I’m not business minded at all and this seems to be a skill needed…and you being still active in the work force …will help too…Even though I’m retired…I still keep thinking of plans for this and that…Let’s hope we follow through on some …Good Luck!…mkg

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  3. My mentor had me put together a 10-year strategic career plan. Not gonna lie – it was like pulling teeth – but so worth it. I am happy to email it to you if you need a template!

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    • That would be great, and so generous! I’ve looked at a lot of strategic plans/business plans in my prep for the one I wrote for this clinic, but it’s difficult for me to translate some of the elements to a personal plan. Well, never too old to learn, right?! ~ Sheila

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    • Yes, choice is important, and I’m grateful to have options. That’s the difficult part, paralysis by option. But as I keep working through these things, I think I’m moving toward clarity. I’ll see what that does for me! ~ Sheila

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  5. I can so relate to this, Sheila. I’ve had that unsettled feeling you’ve got right now … and have learned to let it be heard. Writing helps. Sometimes the only way I’ve found myself to what I WANT to do is to write down all that I don’t. Try it .. you might find it helps you separate the wheat from the chaff.

    Love that quote 🙂
    MJ

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    • Thank you, good idea. It is often easier for me to voice what I don’t want. And that, in spite of the fact that I see myself as a very positive person! I will try it. I certainly need some new methods to tackle this obstacle! I know from your posts you’ve done your own soul-searching…I appreciate wisdom from a fellow seeker! ~ Sheila

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