As we find ourselves settling into the welcomed joy of summer, leaders far and wide are already working on plans for 2022. While we don’t want to worry about tomorrow, we surely don’t want tomorrow to find us unprepared for the prosperity we seek. Here are three themes I use when evaluating new ideas and opportunities:

  1. Results
  2. Revenue
  3. Resources

Obviously, these themes are broad and interrelated. But it is important to evaluate each new idea and opportunity to consider: (1) how will it impact your results; (2) how will it impact your revenue; and (3) what resources will it bring, or require? Only evaluating one or two of these value metrics is short-sighted and fails to appreciate the unavoidable complexity of cost-benefit analyses. Likewise, the evaluation need not be overly complex. Do not let the magnitude of the situation prevent you from deciding and moving forward.

Whatever you do take the time to put your plan on paper, digest it, refine and communicate with your team and stakeholders. Even the smallest businesses benefit greatly from well-vetted short-term and long-term plans. Prioritize the time to think, and develop your plan. Ask yourself the hard questions, and please for the love of everything good and holy, please dare to dream! Doing the same thing because it is what you have always done is never a good enough reason.  We have all lived through times we never imagined. I hope, this summer, you give yourself the gift of putting the time, thought and work into laying out the blueprint for what you dare to accomplish in 2022.

Enjoy your summer!

Camille Evans – 2021 West Orange Chamber Chairwoman