Every successful business must plan and execute. 

How effectively you perform these vital activities determines whether you will survive or thrive. In other words, plan and execute or become extinct.

In fact, senior executives predict that "very effective" strategy execution would improve operating profits by an average of 30 percent over two years.

You've probably heard the adage, "Make every minute count!" But count toward what? How do you know if your minutes count?

To know, you have to measure your time and effort against something. That something is your purpose. Without a compelling purpose, you are just putting in time. Your mind might be engaged, but your heart will not be. And if you want your team members to make every minute count, give them something to be passionate about. When you get your team members inspired about a purpose, their hearts will follow.

The Fundamental Four

It's summer time. Students have graduated from high school and many of them are about to set out on the adventure of a lifetime – college.

Although it has been many years ago, I can remember my first year of college as if it was yesterday. I remember being so excited to depart my comfortable state of Ohio to attend Florida State University.