Writer Lester Robert Bittel  said, “Good plans shape good decisions. That’s why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true.”  Leaders seem to recognize the importance of planning but the majority don’t consider themselves to be planners.  So here’s a simple principle for those who struggle – plan your planning.  Why not take this opportunity here at the end of the year to plug in the times you will plan in 2010. Here’s what I would recommend.

• Plan your year once a year
• Plan your quarter once a quarter
• Plan your month once a month
• Plan your week once a week
• Plan your day once a day

Today’s Leadership Challenge:  Before the end of the year schedule your 2010 planning times in Outlook, Google calendar or calendaring tool of your choice.