While it’s important to know “what was supposed to happen,” it’s also important to consider regularly “what actually happened.”

When we aren’t intentional about comparing our results to what is expected, we drift. It is done frequently.

We achieve our best outcomes when we measure our performance against a standard consistently.

If “what actually happened” falls short of the standard, you have a chance to analyze and consider what went wrong. You can address it immediately and get back on track.

If “what actually happened” exceeds what is expected, you can stop and incorporate the learning. You can record and teach the improved practice.

If “what actually happened” is routinely achieved, you can consider ways to improve by reaching higher or deeper.

The best teams don’t wait for big mistakes or awful results to look at what is actually happening. They take the step of consistently reviewing results and intentionally addressing them.