Our first EOS® annual planning session is coming up in a few weeks. How should our leadership team prepare so we do not waste these two critical days?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Annual planning is the most important session of your EOS® cycle, and proper preparation is essential to maximize your time. The goal is to walk into the room with a clear head, ready to debate, align, and make hard decisions about the future of the company.

First, complete your prep work. This includes reviewing your current V/TO® and evaluating your progress on your 1-Year Plan and 3-Year Picture™. Every member of the leadership team should also complete an organizational health assessment to identify where the team is aligned and where friction exists.

Second, compile your issues. Do not wait until the session to think about what is holding the company back. Keep a running list of long-term, strategic issues that need to be addressed during the session. These should be high-level topics, such as market shifts, organizational structure, or major system upgrades.

Finally, prepare mentally. Annual planning requires high energy and focus. Clear your schedule, delegate your operational responsibilities, and commit to being fully present. Avoid checking emails or taking calls during the session. By arriving prepared, organized, and focused, your team can make the strategic breakthroughs needed to set a clear direction for the upcoming year.