Welcome to the No-BS OKRs™ Blog

Here, you’ll find resources we create to help teams create, implement, and operationalize No-BS OKRs™ (called Evolutionary OKRs® in some workplaces) to set clear goals, stay focused, and build cultures of growth, learning, and high performance.

Featured No-BS OKRs Posts

Featured
“Quiet Quitting” and the “Great Detachment” Reflect Your Culture, Not Your Workforce
“Quiet Quitting” and the “Great Detachment” Reflect Your Culture, Not Your Workforce

“Quiet quitting” isn’t over — recent Gallup Data shows that the “Great Detatchment” is still going strong. Learn how No-BS OKRs can counter this trend, fostering a more engaged and motivated workforce and management.

Read More →
How to Do OKRs for Corporate Functions, An OKR FAQ
How to Do OKRs for Corporate Functions, An OKR FAQ

Creating and aligning OKRs can be particularly tricky for busy corporate functions like HR, IT, legal, corporate communications, and finance. Here are some practical tips to help you create clear expectations for yourself and your team.

Read More →
OKR FAQ: What are some common OKR mistakes organizations make?
OKR FAQ: What are some common OKR mistakes organizations make?

Based on a reader question, learn some of the most common OKR mistakes I see organizations make, including lack of precise use of words and meaning, and failure to create important goals outside of financial, activity, and known KPI areas. Learn a few quick tips about why these mistakes matter, and how to prevent them in this FAQ answer.

Read More →
OKR FAQ: Generative AI, Strategic Planning, and OKRs
OKR FAQ: Generative AI, Strategic Planning, and OKRs

Let’s look at how generative “AI” tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot can (and can’t) assist in strategic planning and the creation of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). We’ll look at some benefits, and some cautions about the limitations and IP implications of using these tools in practice.

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Newest Thinkydoer Podcast Episodes

Featured
Beyond Soundbites: From Case Studies To Client Stories
Beyond Soundbites: From Case Studies To Client Stories

How can you transform raw case studies into compelling client stories? In this episode, Nailah King, a seasoned expert in strategic communications and creative marketing, joins host Sara Lobkovich on Thinkydoers™ to share her insights on turning complex data into authentic narratives that resonate. With a background that spans client relations, innovative storytelling, and hands-on experience with dynamic brands, Nailah brings a fresh perspective on making every story count.

From harnessing the power of narrative to balancing analytical rigor with creativity, this conversation offers actionable strategies for professionals eager to elevate their brand’s voice. Whether you’re a veteran marketer, a budding storyteller, or simply curious about the art of client engagement, this episode provides a practical roadmap to transforming case studies into inspirational success stories.

Generative AI: Practical Strategies for Thinkydoers
Generative AI: Practical Strategies for Thinkydoers

How can AI streamline your workflow without replacing the human touch? In this episode, Dvorah Graeser, founder and CEO of RocketSmart, joins Sara Lobkovich to explore the power of AI in organizing complex information, optimizing processes, and reducing mental fatigue. With a background in AI programming, pharmacology, and intellectual property, Dvorah brings a unique perspective on how to strategically integrate AI tools into everyday work.

From leveraging multiple AI tools to balance strengths and weaknesses to maintaining ethical and responsible AI use, this conversation offers actionable insights for professionals looking to work smarter. Whether you’re an AI skeptic, an enthusiast, or just curious about the future of work, this episode provides a practical roadmap for using AI effectively—without losing the human element.

Generative AI and the Future of Work for Thinkydoers
Generative AI and the Future of Work for Thinkydoers

Want to explore the ethical landscape of AI? In this episode, Dvorah Graeser, founder and CEO of RocketSmart, joins Sara Lobkovich to explore the intersection of AI, innovation, and ethics. With a background in programming, pharmacology, and intellectual property, Dvorah shares her unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities AI presents—especially as it rapidly evolves.

From the risks of AI centralization to the importance of democratizing technology, this conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding generative AI. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a skeptic, or just trying to navigate the ever-changing tech landscape, this episode offers thoughtful insights on how we can engage with AI responsibly and with curiosity.

OKR Forecast 2025: Insights From The Experts
OKR Forecast 2025: Insights From The Experts

Curious about where OKRs are headed in 2025? In this episode, Natalie Webb and Maria Rowcliffe join Sara Lobkovich to share expert insights on the evolving role of OKRs in business strategy and execution. With years of experience guiding organizations through strategic planning, Natalie and Maria discuss the biggest challenges teams face when implementing OKRs—and the practical solutions that drive success.

From aligning leadership vision to improving accountability, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways for teams looking to refine their approach. Whether you're new to OKRs or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you navigate the trends shaping the future of goal-setting and execution.

Posts by Category

Principles of No-BS OKRs

Featured
WTF are OKRs?
OKR FAQ, No-BS OKRs
WTF are OKRs?
OKR FAQ, No-BS OKRs

Don’t know an OKR from a KPI from any other TLA? Dive into the world of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) with our no-nonsense WTF are OKRs guide. You’ll find basic words, meanings, and context about when and how OKRs are useful, and access No-BS OKR cheat-sheets not available anywhere else

Read More →
OKR FAQ, No-BS OKRs
OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?
The Connected Strategic Stack
OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?
The Connected Strategic Stack

One of the first jobs to be done when implementing (or rebooting) OKRs is to identify how they fit into an organization’s existing planning “stack” and get clear about what job they’re being hired to do.

This is an excerpt from an early draft of Sara’s upcoming book, You Are A Strategist.

You’ll be introduced to the first of three models that Sara uses every day in her work with organizations implementing OKRs: the Connected Strategic® Implementation Stack.

Read More →
The Connected Strategic Stack
The Connected Strategic Implementation Stack
Strategic Planning, The Connected Strategic Stack
The Connected Strategic Implementation Stack
Strategic Planning, The Connected Strategic Stack

The Connected Strategic Implementation Stack is a framework that helps us understand where OKRs may fit into an organization's existing operating Stack; and, spot what gaps they may fill in connecting what we do, to what's strategically most important.

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Strategic Planning, The Connected Strategic Stack
Preview: The No-BS OKRs Playbook
No-BS OKRs
Preview: The No-BS OKRs Playbook
No-BS OKRs

After years of writing alone and then sharing with (wonderful, patient) beta readers, with this rewrite I’m doing something different. It’s time to write in public.

Here, I’m sharing the first full chapter, Chapter One. (It’s also available in podcast form via the Thinkydoers Podcast.) I look forward to your feedback; the rewriting is done, but the editing is not, so there’s still time to incorporate constructive edits.

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No-BS OKRs

Leadership + Management

Featured
“Quiet Quitting” and the “Great Detachment” Reflect Your Culture, Not Your Workforce
Management, Leadership
“Quiet Quitting” and the “Great Detachment” Reflect Your Culture, Not Your Workforce
Management, Leadership

“Quiet quitting” isn’t over — recent Gallup Data shows that the “Great Detatchment” is still going strong. Learn how No-BS OKRs can counter this trend, fostering a more engaged and motivated workforce and management.

Read More →
Management, Leadership
Expand your leadership toolkit with assessments
Leadership
Expand your leadership toolkit with assessments
Leadership

I’ve always found assessments helpful not only for personal development and self-knowing, but also for helping organizations develop a shared language around important topics in how we work together. I am a huge supporter of using assessments personally for self-discovery and increasing your understanding about yourself, your default modes, and non-default options for behavior. Here, I share the assessments I use most frequently in my coaching and consulting …

Read More →
Leadership

All posts about Leadership & Management →

Strategic Planning

Featured
Thinkydoers Episode 16: Creating Leading Indicators with Elena Chopyak
Thinkydoer Careers, Goals
Thinkydoers Episode 16: Creating Leading Indicators with Elena Chopyak
Thinkydoer Careers, Goals
Read More →
Thinkydoer Careers, Goals
OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?
The Connected Strategic Stack
OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?
The Connected Strategic Stack

One of the first jobs to be done when implementing (or rebooting) OKRs is to identify how they fit into an organization’s existing planning “stack” and get clear about what job they’re being hired to do.

This is an excerpt from an early draft of Sara’s upcoming book, You Are A Strategist.

You’ll be introduced to the first of three models that Sara uses every day in her work with organizations implementing OKRs: the Connected Strategic® Implementation Stack.

Read More →
The Connected Strategic Stack

All posts about Strategic Planning & Goals →

OKR FAQs

Featured
How to Do OKRs for Corporate Functions, An OKR FAQ
OKR FAQ
How to Do OKRs for Corporate Functions, An OKR FAQ
OKR FAQ

Creating and aligning OKRs can be particularly tricky for busy corporate functions like HR, IT, legal, corporate communications, and finance. Here are some practical tips to help you create clear expectations for yourself and your team.

Read More →
OKR FAQ
OKR FAQ: What are some common OKR mistakes organizations make?
OKR FAQ
OKR FAQ: What are some common OKR mistakes organizations make?
OKR FAQ

Based on a reader question, learn some of the most common OKR mistakes I see organizations make, including lack of precise use of words and meaning, and failure to create important goals outside of financial, activity, and known KPI areas. Learn a few quick tips about why these mistakes matter, and how to prevent them in this FAQ answer.

Read More →
OKR FAQ

All No-BS OKRs FAQs →

OKR Coaching

Featured
Thinkydoers Episode 17: Meet an OKR Coach: Jason Johnston (Part One)
OKR Coaching
Thinkydoers Episode 17: Meet an OKR Coach: Jason Johnston (Part One)
OKR Coaching

Establishing clear objectives and key results (OKRs) isn't just about direction and accountability. It’s about driving real change within organizations. Today’s episode kicks off our two-part conversation with the wonderful Jason Johnston, OKR Practice Lead for Genetec, a leading tech company in the security products and solutions space. Jason is also a veteran whose 20-year military career has given him a unique perspective on leadership and problem-solving.

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OKR Coaching

All posts about OKR Coaching →

OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?
The Connected Strategic Stack Sara Lobkovich The Connected Strategic Stack Sara Lobkovich

OKRs in Context: Do OKRs co-exist with other methodologies?

One of the first jobs to be done when implementing (or rebooting) OKRs is to identify how they fit into an organization’s existing planning “stack” and get clear about what job they’re being hired to do.

This is an excerpt from an early draft of Sara’s upcoming book, You Are A Strategist.

You’ll be introduced to the first of three models that Sara uses every day in her work with organizations implementing OKRs: the Connected Strategic® Implementation Stack.

Read More
Our Uber-FAQ for OKRs
OKR FAQ Sara Lobkovich OKR FAQ Sara Lobkovich

Our Uber-FAQ for OKRs

We’ll collect all of our Objectives and Key Result Frequently Asked Questions here, so you have a one-stop place for simple, straightforward answers to questions about OKRs.

Read More
Expand your leadership toolkit with assessments
Leadership Sara Lobkovich Leadership Sara Lobkovich

Expand your leadership toolkit with assessments

I’ve always found assessments helpful not only for personal development and self-knowing, but also for helping organizations develop a shared language around important topics in how we work together. I am a huge supporter of using assessments personally for self-discovery and increasing your understanding about yourself, your default modes, and non-default options for behavior. Here, I share the assessments I use most frequently in my coaching and consulting …

Read More
Back to Basics: Working with Evolutionary OKRs
Sara Lobkovich Sara Lobkovich

Back to Basics: Working with Evolutionary OKRs

Are you struggling with OKRs? Do you want to learn a better way to set and achieve your goals using the OKR methodology? OKR stands for Objectives and Key Results, and it's a powerful way to align your organization, measure your progress, and drive results. But not all OKR implementations are created equal. Her, you’ll get an unscripted introduction to working with Evolutionary OKRs, a new approach that adapts OKRs to be successfully implemented and operationalized in businesses large and small.

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The Podcast

Thinkydoers is where we shift out of our heads and whiteboard drawings and work to find language for our thought-work and stories.

Each episode tackles a question, a thought experiment, or a resource intended to help you reduce frustration and friction, and increase satisfaction and flow, in your work.

Courses & Community

Thinkydoers, frustrated change agents, overthinkers, and challengers of the status quo:

You’ve found your people.

Here you’ll find our library of free downloadable tools, results-focused online learning options, and other ways to connect through our communities. Draft Evolutionary OKRs Playbook