Selecting an approach to accomplish a goal, (i.e., how to….)is the first step toward achievement.  Execution of this approach is usually most efficient if you don’t change course mid-stream.

A simple example of this would be acquiring a quart of milk. The approach could be to walk to the local store or to drive there.   Perhaps you chose to walk and halfway there decided it was too cold outside and went back home to complete the trip by car.

This change of approach would significantly increase the time to accomplish your goal, i.e., get some milk.  The reason for the change, it was too cold, is clearly a good motivator so it was probably not a bad choice and something that might not have been known at the outset.

Value-Based Judgement

The decision to change course should not be taken lightly.  Good planning upfront helps ensure the initially chosen approach is viable and probably only needs minor adjustments.

If the impacts of a change are less than the benefits there is value in proceeding.  Instead of just figuring it out as you go along before making a change determining the value equation makes sense.

Over Reacting

One of the key dangers to reacting without analyzing the impacts is things could get worse.  Making a change because it feels needed or because unexpected risks have occurred will likely impact the time to achieve the goal and the quality of outcomes.

The best approach is to plan, monitor and control the execution as opposed to hoping all will turn out well in the end.