The Rundown Method

Overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list? The Rundown Method can help. This simple 3-step process, developed by Emmy-award winning journalist Jeromee Scot and inspired by the structured approach of producing a live newscast, empowers you to plan your goals strategically, implement your plan with intention, and evaluate your results for continuous growth. The Rundown Method helps you prioritize what matters most, take confident action, and create the life you envision.

Step 1: Plan (Your Lead Story)

Just like a TV producer facing a blank rundown, life can feel overwhelming when you're not sure where to start. The first step is clarity: identify your lead story. What's the one goal that, if achieved, would make the biggest difference? Is it improving your health, building financial stability, or strengthening relationships? This is your focal point, your headline.

Once you've chosen your lead story, break it down into smaller, actionable segments. If your lead story is financial stability, segments might include tracking expenses, reducing debt, and increasing savings. Writing these down makes them real and actionable. This planning phase isn't just about filling space; it's about envisioning the life you want to create. Imagine your ideal day, week, or year. What are the key elements that will make your life purposeful and fulfilling?

Step 2: Implement (Take Action)

In TV, the show must go on, even when things don't go as planned. The same is true for your goals. This is the implementation phase – putting your plan into action. Stick to your "script" as much as possible, but be prepared to adapt. Unexpected challenges will arise. That's okay. Flexibility is key. Adjust, keep moving forward, and stay focused on the bigger picture.

Action creates momentum. Starting can feel daunting, but each step forward builds confidence and reveals the next step. If your goal is career advancement, start by updating your resume or networking with industry professionals. Each action brings you closer to your goal. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the aim.

Step 3: Evaluate (Reflect and Refine)

After every newscast, the team reviews what worked and what didn't. This reflection is crucial for continuous improvement. The same applies to your personal goals. Regularly evaluate your progress:

• What went well?

• What could be improved?

• What adjustments do I need to make?

Growth happens through reflection. Celebrate your wins, learn from your challenges, and refine your approach. Just like a TV producer tweaks the rundown after the show, you can adjust your plan based on your experience. Evaluation is not about self-criticism; it's about learning, growing, and achieving your full potential.

Understanding the Segments of The Rundown Method

Each of the three core steps—Plan, Implement, and Evaluate—is further broken down into three supporting segments. This concept is drawn directly from TV news production, where the entire newscast is divided into segments to support the overall show. These segments provide structure and focus within each step of The Rundown Method. Think of them as mini-goals or tactical outlines that contribute to the larger objective of each phase.

Step 1: Plan (Your Lead Story) - The Three Planning Segments

The three segments within the "Plan" phase help you define and refine your lead story:

1. Identify: Clearly define your lead story. What is the one goal that will have the biggest impact? Be specific.

2. Segment: Break your lead story into 3-5 smaller, actionable steps (segments) that will move you closer to your goal. These are the "how" – the specific actions you'll take.

3. Visualize: Imagine your ideal outcome. What will achieving your lead story look and feel like? This helps solidify your commitment and provides motivation.

Step 2: Implement (Take Action) - The Three Implementation Segments

The three segments within the "Implement" phase help you stay on track and adapt as needed:

1. Prioritize: Focus on the most important segment (action step) first. Don't try to do everything at once.

2. Execute: Take consistent action on your prioritized segment. Small, daily progress is key.

3. Adapt: Be flexible and adjust your approach as needed. Life throws curveballs; be prepared to pivot.

Step 3: Evaluate (Reflect and Refine) - The Three Evaluation Segments

The three segments within the "Evaluate" phase help you learn and grow from your experiences:

1. Review: Objectively assess what went well and what could be improved in your implementation phase.

2. Reflect: Consider the "why" behind your successes and challenges. What did you learn?

3. Refine: Based on your review and reflection, adjust your plan and/or implementation strategy for the next cycle.

By understanding and utilizing these three segments within each step of The Rundown Method, you create a more structured, focused, and effective approach to achieving your goals. This segmented approach allows for both big-picture vision and granular, actionable steps, ensuring consistent progress and growth.