The 20-Mile March: Steady Progress for Organizational Success
The quest for sustainable change and success can often feel daunting. However, principles or tools can help foster resilience and drive consistent progress. One such principle that I have been sharing with clients a lot lately is the "20-Mile March," popularized by Jim Collins in his book Great by Choice. This principle is a powerful metaphor for disciplined progress and resilience, emphasizing the importance of consistent, measured effort over time.
What is the 20-Mile March?
The concept of the 20-Mile March stems from the story of two explorers, Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott, who raced to be the first to reach the South Pole in 1911. Amundsen's team succeeded because they adhered to a strict regimen of marching 20 miles every day, regardless of weather conditions. In contrast, Scott's team alternated between exhausting sprints and periods of rest, ultimately leading to their failure.
The 20-Mile March, therefore, is about committing to consistent and deliberate progress, day in and day out. This approach fosters discipline, reduces the impact of variability, and builds resilience against unexpected challenges.
Applying the 20-Mile March in Your Organization
1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals
Just as Amundsen's team aimed for 20 miles each day, organizations should establish clear, measurable, and attainable goals. These goals should be realistic enough to be achievable under normal circumstances but challenging enough to drive progress. Regularly track these goals and adjust as needed, ensuring that the entire team understands and commits to them.
2. Embrace Consistency Over Intensity
Rather than pushing for sporadic bursts of productivity, aim for steady, consistent effort. This approach prevents burnout and promotes a sustainable work rhythm. Consistency in performance and output builds reliability and trust, both within the team and with external stakeholders.
3. Build Resilience Through Preparedness
Amundsen's meticulous planning and preparation were key to his success. Organizations should invest in thorough planning and risk management to navigate uncertainties effectively. By anticipating potential challenges and preparing for them, teams can maintain steady progress even when faced with obstacles.
4. Foster a Culture of Discipline
The 20-Mile March requires a disciplined approach to work. Cultivating a culture of discipline within your organization ensures that everyone is committed to the collective goals and consistent effort. This discipline should extend to all aspects of the organization, from strategic planning to daily operations.
The 20-Mile March is a powerful principle that can transform the way organizations approach their goals and challenges. By setting clear, achievable goals, embracing consistency, building resilience, and fostering discipline, organizations can navigate the complexities of their journeys with confidence and purpose. At The Spark Mill, we are dedicated to helping organizations implement strategies like the 20-Mile March to achieve sustainable success. Making consistent, deliberate progress every step of the way may not be as fast as you want to see change take place, but it will ensure that change has a lasting impact.