Don’t drive into the lake
The other week I read one of those news stories about someone following Google Maps straight into a lake because they trusted the GPS over their own eyes.
It’s an easy laugh… until you realise we do the same thing at work.
I always have a quiet chuckle at five-year plans.
Of course, they’re useful, even essential, maps for setting direction. They give you a “true north.” But they’re still just maps. They’re tools, not the terrain.
And in leadership, maps need constant updating or switching out for a new map with a different scale or schema when terrain shifts, the market moves, or whatever else unforeseeable development inevitably happens.
Don’t just draw and blindly follow the map. Keep your eyes open, be responsive, and ready to adapt - without losing the plot entirely. Because if the road is closed or the bridge has collapsed, it doesn’t matter how beautiful your strategy was.
When have you had to trust your judgement over the plan?
I work with senior professionals who want to lead with greater clarity and influence, even in messy or mismatched environments. If that’s you, get in touch.
Until next week, take care of yourself and others
Madeleine
I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.
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