It’s easy to say what you intend to do or to fantasize about all the great things you hope to accomplish one day. However, there’s a big difference between wanting something and doing something about it. Unfortunately, while many are quick to make grand promises, they’re nowhere to be found when it comes to follow-through. Great minds discuss ideas; greater minds deliver results.
Some people envision a masterpiece but never pick up the brush, begin projects but never finish them, or write elaborate plans that collect dust on the shelf. The truth is that intentions are meaningless without action. Simply put, nothing happens unless you make it happen.
Those who begin things, but never complete them, accomplish nothing.
20 Tips to Boost Follow-Through
You might be questioning the harm in letting things slide. After all, you’ve broken commitments before without facing any consequences, and it often seems easier to neglect your responsibilities than to put in the hard work, sacrifice, and determination required to reach your goals.
What strategies can you employ to encourage follow-through?
Foster ownership. People are more committed to an activity when they feel a sense of ownership. Involve people in the decision-making process and emphasize that their contributions are crucial to success.
Underscore the importance of the effort. Outline the broader objectives and explain how their specific commitments contribute to the overarching goals.
Set reasonable goals. It’s important to establish ambitious, yet realistic, short-term goals. Small wins build confidence and maintain momentum as you strive to achieve your long-term interests.
Set clear expectations. Clearly define goals, without prescribing specific methods for achieving them.
Watch out for a fake “yes.” Determine whether people truly agree with you, are simply hearing you, or are just trying to avoid conflict.
Agree on deadlines. Set clear deadlines and milestones to ensure commitments have specific completion dates and are not left open-ended.
Get commitments in writing. Always get commitments in writing to enhance accountability, whether it’s through a formal agreement or a simple email summary of what was agreed upon.
Announce your goals publicly. People who openly commit to their goals are more likely to follow through on them.
Provide necessary resources and support. Ensure that everyone has the resources, training, and support they need to fulfill their commitments.
Align rewards with results. Ensure that incentives directly reinforce your goals to avoid counterproductive efforts.
Focus on effort over results. Although results can be unpredictable, your actions are within your control. As Mike Hawkins, the author said, “You get results by focusing on the actions that produce results.”
Keep an activity log. Maintain a simple list of your activities to monitor your progress. As Lee Iacocca, the automobile executive, said, “The discipline of writing something down is the first step toward making it happen.”
Schedule ongoing progress reviews. Schedule regular check-ins to track progression and address challenges.
Encourage open communication. Create an environment where people feel comfortable asking for help, expressing concerns, or renegotiating commitments when necessary.
Provide feedback. Regularly offer constructive feedback rather than criticism.
Celebrate progress. Acknowledge and reward people for results, not just for showing up.
Build a culture of accountability. Promote a work environment where people hold each other accountable in a supportive way.
Address infractions. Confront noncompliance promptly when commitments are not met.
Keep your eyes on the prize. When challenges arise, and motivation begins to falter, remember the reasons that you embarked on this journey and the rewards that lie ahead.
Lead by example. When leaders consistently demonstrate commitment and follow-through, they provide a positive model for others to emulate.
Follow-Through Finishes What You Start
Follow-through transcends mere task completion — it enhances productivity, underpins success, and, most crucially, demonstrates your commitment to your promises. This unwavering reliability not only builds trust and strengthens your reputation but also boosts your self-confidence and self-esteem. As Henry Ford wisely observed, “You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.” Turn good ideas into great results.
Check out Frank’s latest book, BECOME: Unleash the Power of Moral Character and Be Proud of the Life You Choose
Are You Turning Good Ideas Into Great Results?
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Additional Reading:
Take Ownership by Taking Responsibility
It’s Better Done Than Said
How to Work Smart and Achieve More
Why Do Busy People Get Stuff Done?
Get It Done!
12 Reasons Why People Procrastinate
When You’re a Perfectionist, Your Work Is Never Done
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