So we finally come to step 6 in the abbreviated battle readiness procedure I’ve been describing: Execution.

In the army we always said that “a plan is only good until you cross the line of departure.” Eisenhower said something very similar: The plan is nothing, but planning is everything (or words to that effect).

We have to be ready to adjust our execution to the exigencies of the situation and the reality on the ground. Competitors, clients, suppliers, distributors, other stakeholders, no one does exactly what we were expecting them to do. Things go awry and plans go off track. We have to anticipate, react, and shape the battlefield. We have to manoeuvre to get things back on track, and get our opponents to react to us rather than the other way around.

The best way to do this is to keep our objective(s) front and center. When all else fails, we can still achieve our aims by focusing on the outcome we’re trying to achieve. If we’ve exercised sound leadership and implemented the fundamentals of sound battle readiness I’ve been writing about, then our people (and we ourselves) will be able to adapt and thrive in this demanding, ever changing, environment.

I’m never too busy to discuss your needs or those of anyone else you feel may benefit from meeting or talking to me. So feel free to contact me at any time!

Richard Martin is a Master Strategist and Leadership Catalyst. Richard brings his military and business leadership and management experience to bear for executives and organizations seeking to radically improve performance, grow, and thrive in the face of rapid change, harsh competition, and increasing uncertainty.

© 2014 Richard Martin. Reproduction and quotes are permitted with proper attribution.

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