Start The Quarter Strong With Rocks

New month, new quarter! And with it comes a fresh opportunity to get aligned, focused, and intentional.
In business, that starts with quarterly goal setting - or as we call them, Rocks.
Why Rocks?
The term “Rocks” comes from a simple metaphor from Stephen Covey. If you try to fill a jar with sand and pebbles before you add the big rocks, you’ll never fit them all in. But if you start with the big rocks, then add the smaller stuff around them, everything fits.
Your Rocks are your big priorities for the next 90 days - the essential, non-negotiable wins that will move your business (and your life) forward.
Why 90 Days?
A quarter is long enough to accomplish something meaningful, but short enough to maintain urgency and focus. People tend to lose steam with 12-month goals. But 90 days? You can see the finish line from the start.
How to Set Effective Rocks
Here’s a simple framework I use with clients:
1. Reconnect with the Vision
Before you pick this quarter’s Rocks, zoom out. What are we ultimately trying to build? What does success look like at the end of the year? Your Rocks should be the next logical steps toward that bigger vision.
2. Choose A FEW Real Priorities
More than a few, and nothing is a priority. Rocks should be:
-
Specific
-
Measurable
- Attainable
- Relevant
-
Owned by one person
-
Achievable within 90 days
Don’t mistake a laundry list of tasks for real priorities.
3. Get Team Buy-In
Every leader, every department, every team member should have their own Rocks, and they should be aligned. This creates clarity and accountability. Everyone knows what they’re chasing and how it contributes to the bigger picture.
4. Track Progress Weekly
Set it and forget it doesn’t work. Use your weekly meetings to check in. This keeps momentum alive and allows for real-time adjustments if things go off track.
Bonus Tip: Tie It to Time
If something is truly a Rock, it should show up on your calendar. Block time for it. Protect it. Delegate the rest.
Finish This Quarter with No Regrets
Rocks help you fight the chaos. They help you say yes to the right things and no to the distractions. They bring focus, traction, and alignment.
If you haven’t set your Rocks yet, now’s the time. Don’t let another quarter fly by without clear goals and commitments.
And remember: a quarter well-planned is a year well-built.
Ryan Giles
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