Jigsaw Analysis Planning

One of the most useful planning techniques I like to use on a regular basis is something I call 'Jigsaw Analysis'.

Imagine for a moment that you have just purchased a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle and opened it for the first time. When you look into the box, all you can see is the jumbled chaos of a thousand pieces that need to be sorted out and put into place.

The first step to completing your puzzle is to carefully examine the picture on the front of the box so that you get a clear idea of what it is that you are trying to create.
As you analyse the picture, you'll begin to notice specific areas of detail that have a readily identifiable characteristic.

For example, there may be some red flowers in one area of the picture.

Once you have identified a specific focus within your picture, you can then dive into the detail and identify the puzzle pieces that you need to complete the specific area you are focusing on.
When you have identifed the appropriate pieces and completed a small section of the puzzle, you can then return to the picture on the box to identify another area to focus on.

This cycle of 'Reviewing the big picture' and then 'Diving into the detail' is a process that you can apply to many complex goals.

Here's an example to show you how Jigsaw Analysis works in the real world:
After becoming frustrated at her 9 to 5 job, Stephanie decided to investigate the possibility of starting a music studio from home. She sat down with her husband Brian and together they sketched out a picture of what her business could look like when it was finished. Here is what they drew:

This big picture diagram became Stephanie's visual business plan. At the beginning of each week, she would check the picture and decide which area of her business she was going to focus on, then she would dive into the detail and get to work.

Over time, she continued to apply the technique of Jigsaw Analysis and gradually built up a successful music studio and home business.

Today I'd like to encourage you to make use of Jigsaw Analysis to move towards achieving your own goals.

Begin by selecting a goal and draw up a 'Big Picture' diagram of what you are trying to achieve. Then select a specific area of your goal to focus on and dive into the detail to transform a small part of your visual plan into reality.

This cycle of reviewing the big picture and then focusing on a specific area of detail is not only a good way to complete a jigsaw puzzle, but also a great way to accelerate your progress towards achieving your life goals.

Until next time,

Dare to Dream!
Anthony