At SEG we like the phrase, ‘Time to work on the business’. By this we mean it we stop doing the work long enough to be sure we’re making the most of our time and resources. Imagine if a sporting event never held a timeout, if movies were shot with one take, if busses and planes didn’t get regular maintenance checks. If done well, a break in the action should make the ultimate outcome and objectives more possible.

The litmus test: The 4th quarter of the year is upon us. If you’re about to consider how you will ‘work on our work’ in the coming months, keep the following in mind. By any name – retreat, seminar, team building, engagement – taking the time to ‘work on your work’ must:

• Be relevant to the personal objectives and requirements of all involved.
• Help you work more effectively with your team and stakeholders.
• Assess, make adjustments, and clarify yours and your organization’s direction.
• Contain clear deliverables and accountabilities as you exit the work.

Good luck, and please let us know if we can help!