Morning Minute – 7.29.25
“The 6 Essentials of Project Success!”
(How to dramatically increase your odds of success—now and in the future)
Projects come in all shapes and sizes—from planning a conference to launching a new product or improving team performance. Whatever the project, following these 6 steps will determine your level of success.
1. GOAL
Clearly define how you’ll measure success. Your goal must be:
• Written down and shared with your team
• Very specific and numerically measurable
• Assigned to an accountable project leader
• Realistic (considering current conditions)
• Time-bound with a clear deadline
2. ANTICIPATE
Think ahead. Assess your team’s strengths and weaknesses—and those of your competitors. Consider market conditions, timing, and resources. What must be in place to create conditions favorable for success?
3. PLAN
Use the 4 Ps:
• People: Do you have the right number of people with the right skills?
• Process: What systems will deliver the best results?
• Product: Do you have what you need in the right quantities?
• Promotion: How will you reach and persuade your audience?
4. EXECUTE
Now, take action. Support your team, follow the plan, and track your progress. Execution builds momentum—don’t let the planning phase become a substitute for massive action.
5. ADJUST
Be flexible. The unexpected will happen—whether from a competitor or the market. Revisit your goal and pivot as needed without losing sight of the finish line.
6. REVIEW
Use an “After Action Report” to evaluate what went well, what didn’t, and what you’ll do differently next time. This step turns today’s work into tomorrow’s wisdom.
No matter the size or scope of your project, these 6 steps will keep you and your team focused, accountable, and on track for massive success.
Morning Minute Challenge:
Review your most recent project using these 6 steps. What worked? What would you change? Drop me a line—I’d be happy to offer my insights.
That’s today’s Morning Minute!
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Morning Minute – 8.01.25
🧠 Questions: Your Most Underrated Leadership Tool!
How to guide behavior and build trust—without sounding bossy
During a recent coaching session, a client asked how to get people to perform their tasks correctly—without being seen as a micro-manager. My response can help anyone seeking team cooperation and accountability.
I asked him, “Ever watch a courtroom drama?”
“Of course,” he replied.
“Who’s in control?”
“The lawyer?” he asked.
“Exactly. Because they ask the questions.”
Questions guide answers. They shape conversations. And they give you control—without confrontation.
Let’s say a team member repeatedly skips a step she’s been trained on. You could scold her.
Or you could ask:
➡️ “How could you have done this better?”
That one question transforms a problem into a solution. It invites engagement, not defensiveness.
In private, follow with:
“If I suggest something, give it the same consideration you’d want from me.
But if I tell you to do something—I expect it to be done.”
This approach builds respect and reinforces leadership authority without aggression.
📈 In sales, questions are just as powerful:
“How will this product make your life easier?”
“Can you see yourself using this to earn more or work faster?”
The best leaders and communicators ask their way to influence. They lead by listening—and directing.
🎯 MORNING MINUTE CHALLENGE:
Think of a recent unproductive conversation with a teammate or client.
What questions could have guided them toward a better result?
Share it with me—I’ll help you refine it using the right questions.
🗣️ That’s today’s Morning Minute.
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