We have a strategic plan. It’s called doing things
Herb Kelleher
About the author
Herb Kelleher (1931-2019) was an American businessman, lawyer, and co-founder of Southwest Airlines. He served as its CEO and chairman until his retirement in 2008. Kelleher is widely regarded as a visionary leader who revolutionized the airline industry with his innovative approach to customer service and company culture.
The quote is attributed to Herb Kelleher and reflects his pragmatic and action-oriented leadership style. This quote is often cited in business and management circles as an example of Kelleher’s unconventional and successful approach to running Southwest Airlines.
The meaning of the quote
The quote encapsulates Kelleher’s philosophy of prioritizing action over excessive planning and bureaucracy. It highlights his belief that true progress and success come from taking practical steps and executing ideas rather than getting bogged down in theoretical strategies or complex plans.
This quote challenges the traditional notion that businesses must have elaborate strategic plans and encourages a more agile and adaptable approach. Kelleher recognized that the ability to act swiftly and decisively is crucial in a dynamic and competitive environment. By focusing on “doing things,” Southwest Airlines could respond to market changes, seize opportunities, and continuously improve its operations.
The quote also reflects Kelleher’s emphasis on simplicity and practicality. Rather than complicating matters with intricate strategies, he advocated for a straightforward approach: identify what needs to be done and take action. This mindset fostered a culture of initiative and empowerment within Southwest Airlines, where employees were encouraged to take ownership and make decisions that contributed to the company’s success.
Furthermore, the quote highlights the importance of execution over excessive planning. While planning is essential, Kelleher recognized that no plan is perfect, and overanalyzing can lead to paralysis. By embracing a “doing things” mentality, Southwest Airlines could adapt and learn from experience, continuously refining its approach based on real-world outcomes.
In essence, Kelleher’s quote encourages a pragmatic and action-oriented mindset, emphasizing the importance of execution, adaptability, and a willingness to learn through experience. It challenges the notion that success solely depends on elaborate plans and encourages a more dynamic and responsive approach to business and leadership.