Ask “why” before “how”. The inability to answer “why” creates risk where it is unnecessary.

When there’s a problem to be solved, it’s tempting (and easy) for our thinking to quickly zero in on tactics, goals and actions. It makes sense – we want something done and that’s where the action is. There’s a challenge, however, that is created when action is taken without a clear context.Almost every major decision is made around something called The Planning Horizon. It works like this: when you think about an important issue, there are two large areas to consider. The first is “the big picture” or context. If you lift your view above The Planning Horizon, you’ll find yourself thinking about your mission, vision and values. It’s where you get clear on exactly where you want to go. Once you’re clear on the big picture, then, and only then, can you accurately explore how you might achieve it. What approaches are possible? What solutions might already exist? How can you get things done? Those questions lay below The Planning Horizon.It is easy to get overwhelmed when thinking about “how” you are going to do something—whether it is succession planning or strategic philanthropy. However, when you start by understanding ”why,” “how” becomes much easier to address.For example, if you’re too focused on a problem then your mind may not be open to investigate better solutions and you may become immobilized—caught in old ways of thinking and doing. One way to work through this is to use what author Marilee Adams calls “Q-storming”.In her book Change Your Questions, Change Your Life, she explains that the trouble with brainstorming is that it keeps you focused on developing solutions instead of asking more questions—and questions can bring about clarity. “Q-storming” is about trying to provoke and spawn as many new questions as possible. What we focus on, however, is generating as many new questions as are relevant because asking great questions can generate great answers and, in turn, great solutions. It’s part of the reason we spend so much time clarifying our clients’ “above The Planning Horizon” thinking.Understanding “why” makes it easier to adjust and change course when circumstances change and, as you know, they always do. But more importantly, “why” delivers clarity. That clarity helps create accurate plans, and those plans lead to getting things done.