Becoming an AI-Driven Leader and Why You Should Start Planning for 2026 Now
Becoming AI-driven, start planning for 2026 now, and exciting news — I'm going to be a grandfather!
A couple of ideas that have been on my mind this month and a quick personal update.
ON BECOMING AI-DRIVEN
I've been listening to the audiobook 'The AI-Driven Leader' by Geoff Woods, and it has fundamentally shifted my perspective on how AI impacts the way we work. Many of us treat AI as a simple task-completion tool — a way to write a first draft or summarize a document. I'm learning that real leverage comes from integrating AI into strategic thinking and leadership workflows. It's about asking, 'How can this technology change how we work?' not just, 'How can it do a small part of my work for me?' Try asking your favorite AI to interview you on a decision you need to make and then ask it to make recommendations based on your thinking — then please share your experience with me.
ON PLANNING FOR 2026… ALREADY
It might feel early, but now is a good time to start thinking about 2026. A powerful action you can take — get your 2025 year-end review and 2026 strategic planning session on your team's calendar now. You can then use your upcoming Q3 review meeting not just to check on current progress, but also to begin recapping the key lessons from 2025, giving you a running start on the year ahead.
AND ON A PERSONAL NOTE
I'm writing this from Louisville, KY, where I've been visiting my daughter Quinn and her husband. It's been a wonderful visit, and was made unforgettable by the news that I'll be a grandfather for the first time next February!
If any of this resonates, feel free to reach out.
Does this resonate with you?
Ron works with IT services and growth-stage companies to build the leadership clarity and execution discipline that drives results.
Reach out to Ron