When it comes to setting goals, focus all your attention on one wildly important goal at a time. In doing so, you will execute better than if you spread yourself too thinly. 

Choosing the right WIG:

• Brainstorm possible WIGs.
• Rank them by the impact on the organisation.
• Test the top ideas to see if they are measurable and aligned with your overall WIG.
• Define the WIG. Use the formula: X & Y by Z. Focus on what, not how.

You should apply most of your energy, time and resources only to the tasks and actions that drive your lead measure (the tasks directly related to achieving the goal.) 

Lead measures will inform you of the likelihood of reaching the goal. If you’re unlikely to reach it, you can do something about it.

For example, a car breaking down is out of your control (a lag measure). However, you can maintain your car regularly to lessen a breakdown (a lead measure).

If the lead measure changes, the lag measure will also change.

A visible scoreboard ensures that everyone knows whether they are on the right track. It keeps the team motivated.

The scoreboard needs to clearly and simply outline the data.

• Only have necessary data on display so that everyone can understand it at a glance.
• Ensure it is visible to everyone.
• Show lead and lag measures.
• It can tell at a glance if you’re winning or losing.

It is important to create a consistent cycle of accounting for past performance and plan for the future. This can be done with weekly WIG sessions.

There are three parts to a WIG section:

1. Account: Report on commitments. Identify the commitments reached during the week in review.
2. Review the scoreboard: Learn from successes and failures. Identify all the things you’ve been able to achieve so far regarding the lead and lag measures. Celebrate your successes.
3. Plan: Clear the path and make commitments for the next week.