5W1H Method - Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How
Abraham Lincoln famously said, 'Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I’ll spend the first four sharpening my axe.
This applies to all our activities inside or outside business. Without a plan, you will be lost. I always make a point to emphasize the importance of preparation.
If you are confused on where to start, use this simple framework that I always follow and preach to everyone. It is the 5W1H method or Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How.
HOW I Use the 5W1H?
- •During planning for any projects or ideas, go through each of them and define these questions.
- •Who will be responsible? The Actors
- •What everyone will be responsible for doing? The Action
- •Where will this happen? The Location
- •When are the deadlines for each activity? The Timeline
- •Why is this action helpful or needed? The Result
- •How will this be done? The Process
WHAT May You Notice?
- •Your projects run smoother now that all the details are defined.
- •You feel less stressed or overwhelmed.
- •You are able to adapt your plans to unforeseen circumstances.
TRY This Today
- •Pick one of the projects you are currently working on.
- •Define each of these questions.
- •Reflect on how the process felt and how you feel now that all these questions are answered.
Know Someone Who Could Use the 5W1H?
Growth becomes easier when we walk the path together, pass this along to someone who might need a small nudge today.