I get this question a lot. Here is the deal, strategic planning gets thrown around a lot and it seems like this big, super complex thing. And it can be, especially within super mature, large organizations. But for most, strategic planning is really just defining where you are going and how you will get there.

Now, each organization is different and some of those more mature or larger ones may have templates and tools that can help walk you through their process. Most do not. So, first thing I would suggest is ask a trusted colleague or leader, “I am building out my strategic plan/strategy. Are there particular templates that the organization uses so there is consistency?” This will keep you from creating something from scratch if it isn’t necessary.

Assuming your organization is like most and there isn’t a set template, you can create your own. Here is a simple structure you can follow to build your strategic plan. Going through these steps will help you practice and develop your strategic thinking skills.

1. Vision Statement: What is the vision for the team? Where are we going?

Note: If you don’t have one and want help creating one, you can use this worksheet to create yours and then come back here.

2. Mission Statement: The mission statement explains the purpose of the team. Why do we exist?

3. Core Values: What are the principles and shared beliefs that guide how the team works towards the vision? What behaviors are ideal and standard?

4. Strategic Goals: What are the 3-5 highest priorities we will work towards to ensure we achieve the vision? These goals should be clear, measurable and time bound.

5. Current State: Where are you at now? This is where some include a SWOT Analysis where you define the team’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Some follow a Continue, Stop and Start model where you define what tasks should be continued, stopped or added in order to reach the vision. Both have merit and you can choose one or both that best fit your needs.

6. Action Plan: Breaks down how each of the strategic goals will be achieved. Typically, this section would include key projects that will help the team move towards the vision. List out the goal or initiative, key elements or responsibilities under that goal, who is responsible or taking ownership for seeing this completed successfully and when will it be completed.

7. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) & Metrics: Define how progress will be tracked and measured. What can you measure that shows the team is successfully moving towards the vision?

8. Review and Adaption Plan: Define how and when the plan will be reviewed so, if needed, adjustments can be made. As you execute the plan, you will uncover things you didn’t know and gain additional information. There will be internal and external factors that may require you to adapt and change course. Stay focused on the vision, but flexible so you can pivot as needed.

My best advice: Don’t do this alone in a vacuum. You may have a lot of the answers, but people around you have different perspectives, expertise and knowledge that can help ensure you don’t miss things. Invite feedback from your team members, leadership and trusted colleagues. Be open to their suggestions, questions, concerns and ideas. You can use that insight next time you build out a strategic plan!

I also strongly recommend you build out a Team Charter. This document serves as your team’s game plan and can help ensure everyone is aligned towards the vision. I created a free downloadable guide you can use to build out your Team Charter.