The starting point of your journey begins with a powerful vision- this is the destination you're working towards throughout your journey. This is where you tap into your deepest desires and dreams for the kind of impact you want to make. A compelling vision serves as your North Star, guiding every decision and action. Your vision sets the stage for everything that follows- but not all visions are good visions, and there's an art to creating a vision that will inspire others and catalyse impact!

Your first step is to develop your Theory of Change. This is like a map of the terrain you must navigate between where you currently are, and the destination you want to reach (your vision). This involves mapping out the potential pathways and milestones that lead to your destination, including the obstacles, key stakeholders, and broader environmental context. Your Theory of Change is the map that allows you to identify all possible routes before you decide on the best path forward. 

NOTE: Are you a practitioner working in a field that uses logic models (logframes) for your theory of change? 

A good theory of change should be broader and deeper than intervention-specific logic models, which are better suited as a strategic framework than a ToC. Learn how a more comprehensive approach using tools like the Theory of Change Canvas can benefit the communities you serve. 

With a clear Theory of Change in place, it’s time to develop your Strategy. Your strategy is the route you're taking, which involves translating your mapped-out theory into a concrete, actionable path forward. You'll define specific, measurable goals and outline the tactics you'll employ to reach them. What are the key activities and initiatives that will propel you forward? Your strategy provides the detailed directions that guides your journey towards impact.

If your strategy is the route you're taking, the Critical Path is the next steps you should take on your journey. Think of this as the GPS that shows you where you currently are, and what direction to head next. This is where you identify the essential tasks and priorities that will ensure your strategy is executed effectively and efficiently. What are the critical actions that must be taken, and in what order? Establish timelines, allocate resources, and set checkpoints to maintain momentum and accountability. Your Critical Path is the backbone of your implementation, ensuring that every step brings you closer to your vision.