The Summer Reset: Planning for Impact
Summer has a way of shifting the rhythm of work. For many the break from school-year programming opens up calendars and provides a lighter pace feel in the office. Casual Fridays, anyone?
Summer creates a natural break that is easy to overlook but incredibly valuable if used well. In this solo episode, I explore why this time of year offers a rare opportunity to step back from execution and focus on strategy. Instead of moving directly from one program cycle into the next, this is a moment to reflect, realign, and plan intentionally for the year ahead.
In this episode, I cover:
Why summer is one of the best times to revisit strategy and priorities -
How to use retreats or planning sessions without overcomplicating the process
A simple but powerful question to guide reflection: What actually changed for the people we serve this year?
How to move from activities to clearly defined outcomes
Why many organizations struggle to articulate impact, even when doing strong work
How a data and impact plan can connect your strategy, measurement, and communication
At the center of this conversation is a practical shift: start with the change you want to create, and then design your programs, data, and decisions around that.
As you listen, consider:
What changed this past year in the lives of those you serve?
What change do you want to see next year?
How will you know if you are making progress?
Read more about Data and Impact Plans.