their final form. Don’t jump into something without a clear plan, but don’t be afraid to define your strategy as you go. There’s a reason audiences won’t be flocking to theaters to watch the latest galactic adventures of Luke Starkiller this December. 2. BE METHODICAL While you shouldn’t wait for the perfect plan, you shouldn’t be flying in blind, either. You can be too energetic about execution. Make sure everyone involved in a plan knows their responsibilities. Confusion will torpedo any strategy faster than you can say, “Who was in charge of this?” The Harvard Business Review states, “Having the discipline to organize people, assemble resources, and then generate a plan that others can commit to will collectively improve execution.” 3. EVALUATE, EVALUATE, EVALUATE We’re not saying you should micromanage your team, but you do need to be checking in on a regular basis to evaluate progress on your plan. Schedule monthly or quarterly meetings to go over the strategy. This is where you look for any changes that need to be made and refine the strategy. A smart strategy feels reassuring, but learning to execute a plan is the only way to make progress. The best business plan in the world is worthless if you never follow through. ND KILL STAGNANCY
A PART OF SOMETHING DEEP RIVER FIT’S PHILOSOPHY
You’re browsing the menu at your local upscale restaurant when a cocktail catches your eye. Printed on this list of drinks is a bourbon concoction named after your gym. Sound too good to be true? Well, if you’re ever eating at the Hu Hotel in Memphis, order yourself a “Deep River.” When James Lancaster opened Deep River Fit earlier this year, he knew it had to be something special. “I’ll be honest. When you open a gym, you have to take a stance,” he says, reflecting on opening his CrossFit box earlier this year. “I wanted a certain atmosphere that was competitive but welcoming,” James explains, adding, “I want our members to represent the city of Memphis.” This idea of representation has been a huge part of Deep River Fit’s success. They’ve partnered with local businesses, like Dr. Beans Coffee Roasters and High Cotton Brewing, to give their members incredible perks — but according to James, the strategy goes beyond discounts. “People want to be a part of something bigger than themselves,” he says. “They want something more than power cleaning on black mats … Cool perks and discounts in town make them feel represented.”
SWEET POTATO PANCAKES
This philosophy is the product of nearly a lifetime spent at gyms. An avid athlete his whole life, James was a linebacker for the University of Central Arkansas Bears until a knee injury landed him on the surgeon’s table. After rehab, he still felt like he wasn’t finished with his athletic
INGREDIENTS
• 1 medium sweet potato, roasted and cooled • 2 large eggs, beaten • A dash of cinnamon (optional) • A dash of allspice (optional) • Cooking spray
For the Topping • 1/2 cup 2% Greek yogurt • 1 tsp maple syrup • A dash of cinnamon
DIRECTIONS
career. He worked in gyms, speed and agility centers, and ended up going to CrossFit regionals along the way. Many of the athletes he trains begged him to open his own gym, and on June 3 of this year, James finally caved. With over a decade of experience, James has a lot of wisdom despite how young his box is. On the subject of retail, his advice was on-point. He told us, “Man, just have your products available. Keep the fridge full!” Members were more excited to buy products when they were well-stocked. He insists, “You need to have options — almost like it’s a shopping experience … It goes back to people wanting to be a part of something. A good gym is more than just barbells. Create an atmosphere however you can.”
1. Place sweet potato in a medium bowl; remove peel and mash. Whisk in eggs and spices (if using). 2. Heat a griddle pan over medium-high heat. Coat it with cooking spray (or use oil or butter if you prefer), spoon out 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle, and let cook 5–7 minutes. 3. This is the tricky part! These pancakes do not bubble like typical pancakes, so you have to really rely on the timer. It helps to use two spatulas to flip so they stay together. Once you’ve flipped, cook for another 3–5 minutes, remove, and serve. 4. For the topping, mix yogurt with cinnamon and maple syrup. Spoon over pancakes.
NUTRITIONAL INFO
Yield: 1 pancake | Calories 350 | Fat 13g | Protein 26g | Carbs 34g | Fiber 4g | Sugar 17g | Sodium 230mg
Thanks, James!
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