While recovering from COVID in Melbourne, I had a moment to reflect – and what kept coming up was focus. Not just mine, but how so many businesses I work with are spinning their wheels because they’re overloaded with goals that sound good… but don’t deliver results.
I want to share a conversation I had recently with a founder who said:
“We’ve been using OKRs… but they just aren’t working. Are we doing something wrong?”
Spoiler alert: it’s not them. It’s the system.
The OKR Trap: Why They Often Fall Flat
OKRs (Objectives & Key Results) are big, aspirational goals with measurable outcomes. In theory, they’re brilliant. In practice – especially in entrepreneurial businesses – they can turn into overwhelming spreadsheets filled with vague ideas no one owns.
I’ve seen teams with:
- 6–7 OKRs per person
- No clear ownership
- Generic outcomes like “grow brand” or “improve communication”
- A monthly check-in that’s more admin than action
The result?
Beautiful goals. No movement. No traction.
Enter EOS Rocks: Built for Focus & Execution
In EOS, we use Rocks – 90-day business priorities that are simple, clear & owned.
Here’s how they work:
- 3–7 priorities per quarter
- One owner per Rock
- Clear outcome & due date
- Tracked weekly in your Level 10 Meeting
That’s it. No fluff. No confusion. Just clarity & execution.
Real-World Example: The OKR Swamp
One of my clients had beautifully structured OKRs. But when I asked, “How are they going?” – I got blank stares.
They weren’t lazy. They were lost.
We ditched the OKRs. Together, we set 5 company Rocks.
Each was owned. Each was specific. Three months later – they’d nailed 4 out of 5.
Why Rocks Work Better for Most Entrepreneurs
💡 Rocks create focus
You can’t chase everything. Rocks force you to choose what really matters.
💡 Rocks demand ownership
No team goals. No shared accountability. One name = one outcome.
💡 Rocks build habits
This is about execution – not just setting goals. Rocks help you build the muscle of follow-through.
My Rocks This Quarter (Yes, I Set Them Too)
As someone who runs three businesses, I live what I teach.
Here are three of my Rocks this quarter:
- Launch our Melbourne EOS client event
- Record & release 3 solo podcast episodes
- Recruit a new assistant for Business Action
They’re not vague. They’re measurable. And they’re mine.
Final Thought: OKRs Look Good. Rocks Work.
If your leadership team is stuck in the “goal-setting” trap with no results, it’s time to try something simpler.
EOS Rocks give you clarity, traction & results – every 90 days.
📞 Want help setting Rocks that move the needle? Book a quick call with me.
Written by Debra Chantry-Taylor, FBA Accredited Family Business Advisor, Certified EOS Implementer & Founder of Business Action.
Business Action is focused on helping Entrepreneurs lead better lives, through creating a better business. We have a small team of accredited family business advisors, EOS Implementers & Leadership coaches, as well as access to a huge range of advisors through our Trusted Partners Network.
