Aiming for Something Better: Common Good Reviews Plan of Action

Growing up working farmland in Kansas, you learn a simple truth pretty early on: if you don’t plant with a purpose, you don’t get a crop. Growth doesn’t just happen by accident. It takes planning, patience, and a whole lot of intentionality.

When the folks at Common Good magazine recently published a review of Plan of Action, I was genuinely humbled by their takeaways. They pointed to an old adage that has guided me through many seasons of business and life: "If you aim at nothing you will surely hit it."

The reviewer graciously referred to the book as a collection of "experiential wisdom." If I am being honest, most of that wisdom wasn't born out of sudden inspiration. It was earned through the deep valleys, the hard transitions, and the incredible mentors who shaped me along the way. In the book, I wanted to share the lessons those luminaries taught me about building a life that is truly meaningful—one grounded in a love for God, a love for others, and enduring friendships.

What I appreciate most about the Common Good review is that it highlighted the idea of "hopeful realism." In the business world, we are often sold a narrative that success should be an unbroken upward curve. The reality is far different. As the review noted, I included a reminder in the book that I have had to lean on more than a few times: "Some years, some days, your highest goal is to limit the loss."

We all face differing seasons. Sometimes you are expanding the enterprise, and sometimes you are just trying to keep the team together through a storm. That is why intentionality and sustainable rhythms of work and rest are so crucial. We can't steward our businesses, our families, or our communities well if we are running on empty.

I am incredibly grateful to Common Good for their thoughtful words and for recognizing the heart behind this book. If you are in a season where you feel like you might be aiming at nothing, I hope Plan of Action can offer some down-to-earth guidance to help you find your target.

You can read the full review of Plan of Action here.

You can order your copy of Plan of Action here.