Dust Collector to Driving Force: 3 Ways to Activate a Strategic Plan

You spent weeks developing a strategic plan. It’s thoughtful, values-based, and community-informed. So why is it collecting dust?

If you’ve ever looked around and realized no one is referencing the plan—or worse, they’re heading in different directions entirely—you’re not alone. Strategic plans often fail not because they’re bad, but because they’re invisible.

Here’s how to bring yours back to life (without scheduling another full-day retreat or hiring a magician).

1. Translate Vision into Daily Language

Avoid lofty jargon. Condense each priority into a plain-language question:

“How does this priority support a safe and connected community?”

Use this as a litmus test at meetings, in briefings, and even in public messaging. Translate your vision into clear action by identifying your top 3 strategic priorities each quarter and tracking visible progress.

2. Make Actions Visible

Instead of tracking progress in hidden spreadsheets, share your top 3 actions per quarter on your website, in community updates, or even staff break rooms. Visibility = accountability.

3. Build In Small Reviews

Annual reviews are too infrequent. Instead try:

• Quarterly check-ins with leadership

• Biannual workshops

• End-of-meeting reflections tied to strategic goals + actions.

  
  

Bonus: Use Outside Help to Refresh Engagement

Even a short facilitated session can refocus efforts. Leaders don’t need more to do—just better ways to stay aligned.

Want help with this? Connect with me to book a session!