Coherence, purpose and focus on what does not change
We are entering 2026 in an environment full of noise, urgency and false certainties. The temptation is clear: to plan from fear, run after the next fad and confuse movement with direction. But in a change of era, this reflection is not only insufficient, it is dangerous. Today, true strategic planning requires a deeper and more uncomfortable decision: stop reacting to the environment and refocus on what does not change.
Focus on what doesn’t change
Markets change. The tools change. Narratives change. Which does not change It is the human condition.
People still need trust. They continue searching for meaning. They continue to commit themselves when they feel that their work serves something that transcends.
There is a clear warning here: a strategy that ignores the human is an illusion of control.
As you have pointed out Gary Hamelthe real advantage comes not from rigid structures, but from the human capacity to learn and adapt. Investing in processes without investing in people is building on sand.
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Coherence before blind adaptation
Adapting is essential. Getting lost in adaptation is lethal.
Many organizations confuse agility with opportunism and end up chasing every trend for fear of being left behind. The cost is high: dispersion, attrition and loss of identity.
Here it is advisable to be forceful: not everything new is relevant, nor is everything relevant new.
Seth Godin sums it up clearly: the job is not to please everyone, but deeply serve the right. Saying “no” consistently is a strategic decision. Clarity does not limit growth; he orders it.
The reason for being is not an ornament
In times of uncertainty, purpose often becomes strategic cosmetics. It is communicated, printed and repeated… but you don’t live. And a purpose that does not decide, it doesn’t work.
The reason for being directs. Define which opportunities to take and which to pass up. Align when there are no clear answers. Prevent fear from becoming a strategy.
Here key views converge:
- Adam Grant Remember that healthy cultures flourish when people feel like they are contributing to something bigger.
- Keith Ferrazzi It demonstrates that deep collaboration is born from a shared “why.”
- Amy C. Edmondson It is forceful: without psychological security, no purpose is lived; it is only declared.
Planning without purpose is planning in a vacuum.
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Serve and transcend: the forgotten advantage
Serving is not weakness. Is strategic strength.
When an organization understands who it serves and why it exists, it stops selling from urgency and starts building from trust. Not every client will be for you—and that’s okay. Coherence filters. Clarity attracts.
Here they connect W. Chan Kim y Renee Mauborgne: creating value is not competing stronger, it is redefine the game from an authentic proposal.
The step that matters
Planning for 2026 does not ask for more speed. ask purpose, vision y happiness.
Purpose to decide coherently. Vision to choose the essential over the urgent. And joy to remember that building with meaning releases energy, creativity and commitment.
Whoever plans from there will not have absolute certainty. You will have something better: direction, consistency and the deep conviction that the best is yet to come.
Have a great day.
About the author:
Mac, visionary entrepreneur and thought leader on how to build the future in which we will be happy to live. It teaches companies, associations and governments to better face the future, assume its greatness, and make a difference in the world.
The opinions expressed are solely the responsibility of their authors and are completely independent of the position and editorial line of Forbes Mexico.
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