The Structure of Play: Helping Your Business Flourish
Why is it that children can get an idea in their head and just go with it?
If they are using blocks, they don’t sit there and think, “What should I build?” They just get started and let it turn into what it’s going to be. It’s the same with planting a seed in a paper cup or drawing a story—they don’t ponder the "ROI" of the idea; they just run with what their brain is telling them.
If only we could do that more as adults.
Unfortunately, as we grow our businesses, we start to thoroughly think things through before acting. We feel like we need more and more structure to make sure we have the "right" direction before we can even start. Hello, perfectionism. We forget that even the most beautiful houseplant started as a tiny sprout pushing through the soil.
But what if structure wasn't a cage? What if we put together a framework specifically to tap back into that inner child and find unique ways to talk to our customers without dwelling on it?
That’s where a Communications and Operations roadmap comes in. Think of it as the vessel and the light for your business. It doesn't tell the plant how to grow; it just provides the intentional environment it needs to flourish.
How to tend to your business:
Define the Intent (The Seed): Every new message starts with a spark. Are you looking for deep roots or a quick, bright bloom? Clear goals help you decide exactly what needs to be said, so you aren't just adding to the noise.
Identify Your People (The Environment): Just as some plants thrive in a sunny window and others prefer the quiet shade, your audience needs a specific environment to feel connected to you. The more you understand them, the more naturally your words will flow.
Develop the Message (The Growth): Once the environment is right, the growth happens naturally. You might speak to a long-time client about the legacy you’re building together, while you speak to a new lead about the immediate weight you can take off their shoulders.
Choose the Right Channels (The Vessel): You don’t have to be everywhere. Your business should be planted where it can actually thrive—whether that’s a vibrant social space or a quiet, thoughtful email.
Create a Rhythm (The Tending): This is the Operations piece that saves your sanity. It’s the routine of care that ensures you aren't over-watering one project while neglecting another. It allows you to see the big picture and keep the "growth" sustainable.
Monitor and Iterate (Pruning): Watch how things flourish. If a message isn't resonating, don't take it personally—just gently prune that approach and try something new. It’s all part of the natural learning cycle.
Sometimes all it takes is a little planning to get back that creative spark you had as a kid. By building this roadmap, you’re giving yourself the space to effectively create and deliver content that truly connects.
It’s a journey—let’s make it feel like play again.