Episode 221 - Identifying Blind Spots in Your Plans

that can hinder our success. They exist because of assumptions. Biases are simply because we're too close to the work to see the bigger picture. And here's a real example. In the early two thousands, Blockbuster ignored the rise of streaming technology because they assume people would always prefer physical rentals. Meanwhile, Netflix identified that blind spot and build a billion dollar empire. Blockbuster's oversight cost them the market. And here's a leadership truth.

Identifying blind spots isn't about avoiding mistakes. Altogether, it's about catching them early enough to adapt. So let's talk about some of the most common blind spots leaders face. Number one, over confidence in the plan. Thinking your plan is fool proof can prevent you from considering potential risks or alternative scenarios. Number two ignoring feedback from others. Leaders sometimes dismiss differing opinions,

but these perspectives often reveal critical blind spots. Number three failure to adapt rigid plans that don't account for change, whether it's market shifts, team dynamics, or unexpected events. This is the we've always done it that way. Blind spot. Number four's underestimating resource needs. Many plans fail because leaders assume they have more time, budget, or manpower than they

actually do. Number five's overlooking team capabilities. Assuming everyone understands or can execute your plan without adequate training or context can lead to bottlenecks. So how do you find the blind spots hiding in your plans? You have to conduct what's called a pre mortem, and this is a meeting you have where, instead of thinking this plan is going to succeed, ask your team what could cause this plan

to fail? Gather your team and brainstorm the potential pitfalls because this proactive approach, which can uncover risks you haven't considered and can potentially save you a lot of time and money. And the other one is seek external perspectives. Sometimes we're too close to our plans to see the flaws in them. Bring in trusted advisors, mentors, or even a consultant to review your strategy with a fresh set of eyes. And finally, embrace dissent. Actively encourage your team

to challenge your ideas. Create a safe environment where people feel comfortable pointing out weaknesses. Often the most junior team members spot the issues senior leaders overlook. And here's a pro tip, keep an open mind during this process. The goal isn't to defend your plan, it's to make it better. In another real world example, when Toyota first expanded into the US market, they underestimated how much American customers valued larger,

more comfortable vehicles. Their initial car models didn't resonate with the market, but instead of doubling down, they listen to feedback, adapted their designs, and introduced models like the Camera and the Corolla, and today they're one of the top automakers in the United States. So this week I challenge you to uncover a blind spot in one of your current plans. Start with these steps. Schedule a team meeting to conduct

a pre mortem. Ask what could go wrong with this plan, and then share your plan with someone outside your team for a fresh perspective. And invite at least one dissenting opinion from your team and genuinely listen to their feedback. Take the insights you gather and refine your plan accordingly. You will not only improve your outcomes, but build trust with your team. So no plan is perfect, but the best leaders are those who constantly look for ways to

strengthen their strategies and their plans. Identifying blind spots as a skill that requires humility, curiosity, and a willingness to adapt. Swallow your ego. You may think you just painted a monet, and a fresh set of eyes may tell you something different. Most flaws and plans are in plain sight. Remember it's not about being perfect, It's about being prepared and a willingness to adapt and refine your plan. This has been the seven minute Leadership podcast, and I thank you for listening.