Instructions: For each statement below, rate how often it occurs in your business on a scale of 1 to 5:
1 = Never
2 = Rarely
3 = Sometimes
4 = Often
5 = Always

Statements:

1.    Frequent Firefighting: We spend a lot of time reacting to urgent issues instead of focusing on long-term goals.
(If you often feel like you're putting out fires rather than making progress, rate higher on the scale.)

2.    Misaligned Teams: Our team members often have different ideas of what’s important or what our priorities are.
(If people seem to be pulling in different directions, rate higher.)

3.    Lack of Clear Goals: We struggle to set or communicate clear, long-term objectives for the business.
(If your goals are often vague or shifting, rate higher.)

4.    Redundant Efforts: We frequently find that teams or departments are duplicating work or working at cross-purposes.
(If you notice overlap and duplication, rate higher.)

5.    Extra Communication Needed: We spend a lot of time clarifying tasks or re-explaining goals to ensure everyone is on the same page.
(If frequent re-explanations are needed, rate higher.)

6.    Short-Term Focus: Our decision-making tends to be more forward-looking and long-term strategies are often neglected in favor of immediate needs.
(If you find that long-term planning is frequently sacrificed for short-term issues, rate higher.)

7.    Missed Opportunities: We sometimes miss out on market trends or new opportunities because we’re not proactively planning for the future.
(If you feel like opportunities are slipping by, rate higher.)

8. Low Morale or Turnover: Employees seem less engaged or unsure of the company’s direction, leading to reduced morale or turnover.
   (If you notice a lack of engagement or higher turnover, rate higher.)

9. Confusion About Roles: There is often confusion about who is responsible for what, which slows down progress.
   (If role confusion is common, rate higher.)

Interpreting Your Score:

·         8–16: You likely have a strong strategic foundation. A formal strategic plan could still refine and strengthen your direction.

·         17–32: You’re experiencing moderate strategic drift. A strategic plan could help align your team and improve focus.

·         33–45: You’re likely feeling the strain of operating without a strategic plan. Implementing one could greatly improve long-term stability and success.