Welcome to 2025. We’re barely a few weeks into the new year, and many of you might already feel the weight of what lies ahead. The budgets were finalized, priorities were set, and plans drafted in Q4 of 2024—but let’s be honest: how many of those plans truly survived contact with reality?
If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. The start of a new year is always a mix of excitement and uncertainty. As someone who’s walked the path of large-scale transformations for over two decades, I’ve seen what works—and more importantly, what doesn’t.
This isn’t about perfection; it’s about readiness. The start of Q1 is the ideal time to step back, reflect, and make the adjustments that will define your success for the rest of the year. Let me share some guidance, drawn from years of watching organizations thrive—and stumble—on this very journey.
Last week, I talked about the importance of resource estimation when you’re mapping out your 2025 priorities. But there’s much more to the story.
Let’s ask some honest questions:
These aren’t just tactical to-dos. They’re the building blocks of strategic clarity.
The good news is that these questions can be addressed quickly—through a focused 45 day strategic plan sprint in Q1.
Let me share a story that underscores why strategic planning isn’t optional—it’s essential.
A few years ago, I joined a large-scale data provider mid-project. The program was already in motion, but it was clear from day one why I had been brought in: there was no structure.
The project was fragmented, lacking alignment across teams and clarity around the deliverables. Leadership had ambitious targets but no actionable plan to get there. The risks were mounting, and so was frustration.
We had to act fast. The first step? Refresh the strategy, reset the program, and create a proper strategic plan.
Over the next 45 days, we launched a focused strategic planning sprint. Here’s how we did it:
By maintaining a relentless focus on execution and collaboration, we steered the program back on course. Not only did we bring clarity and alignment to the initiative, but we also helped the organization hit its original target dates.
That’s the power of a strategic planning sprint: 45 days of focused effort can course-correct even the most complex programs, ensuring alignment, structure, and momentum.
If you’re starting 2025 with ambitious goals but lingering uncertainty, ask yourself: Do we have the clarity and structure we need to succeed? If the answer is no, it’s time to dive in, reset, and create the strategic foundation that will carry your team forward.
Here’s the truth: Strategic planning is not a fixed exercise. It’s a living process.
The pace of change in Financial Services, Insurance, and FinTech means you can’t afford to lock yourself into rigid plans. Flexibility, clarity, and leadership are your greatest assets.
Take the time now to:
Most importantly: Check in with your teams. The people executing your plans need to feel heard, supported, and equipped to succeed. Their feedback is your reality check—and your lifeline.
As you move through Q1, think of this period as a recalibration. The plans you adjust now will pay dividends throughout the year.
Is your 2025 strategy built to adapt? A focused 45-day strategic planning sprint can realign your goals, refresh your program, and keep your team on track for success.
I'll be in London Feb 4–6th if you'd like to discuss more.
