Peer Perspective: Setting the Pace for the Year Ahead

By Whitney Altizer, SVP & Chief Commercial Officer

By the third week of January, the reset is over. Budgets are finalized, business plans are in motion, and the industry has officially shifted from reflection to execution. There’s a familiar surge of energy in this moment new goals, new expectations, and a strong desire to move quickly. But I’ve learned over the years that how we set the pace now matters just as much as where we’re trying to go.

This time of year isn’t a sprint. It’s a marathon.

In commercial strategy, momentum is important, but so is sustainability. For me, creating a winning environment starts with rhythm. Sometimes that shows up in small, grounding moments—like making a cup of tea. The process is simple and steady: heating the water, waiting, letting things unfold in the right order. It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t require rushing every step to be effective.

I’m reminded of that same rhythm at the end of long days, sitting in the stands watching my son play basketball. After hours of decisions, forecasts, and conversations, being present in that moment brings clarity. Even in a loud gym, when I step back and simply watch, perspective sharpens, and the bigger picture comes back into focus.

As commercial leaders, especially coming out of the holiday season, our role isn’t just to drive results, it’s to shape the environment our teams excel in. That includes setting realistic expectations, prioritizing focus over frenzy, and creating space for clear thinking. When the environment is steady, teams perform better. Strategy lands more effectively. Execution becomes consistent rather than reactive.

January brings excitement and opportunity, and the work ahead is meaningful. But the strongest outcomes come when we move with intention, not urgency for urgency’s sake. When we establish a pace that can be maintained, we don’t just hit performance goals; we build teams that can sustain success.