Moonshots & Roofshots: OKRs that blend Big Ideas with Realism 

A small business owner once told me:
“Our Moonshot was to triple revenue in 2 years, but our Roofshot was hitting monthly profit targets to keep us afloat. Without both, we would’ve burned out or played it too safe.”

What Are Moonshots and Roofshots?

Moonshots are the “big, hairy, audacious goals” that push your team to dream bigger.
Roofshots keep your team grounded with achievable, step-by-step wins.

Great leaders know it’s not either-or—it’s both. They understand that success lies in combining these approaches, not choosing between them.

A Tale of Two Goals

Here’s how this balance might look in action:

• Your Moonshot: “Double customer retention in 2 years.”
• Your Roofshot: “Increase retention by 10% this quarter.”

The Moonshot inspires bold action, while the Roofshot ensures consistent, measurable progress. Together, they align the business vision with execution.

“OKRs are like a GPS for your business—they guide you to stay on course and ensure you’re heading in the right direction toward your goals.” (Umaa Arun)

What’s the Relevance? Why do OKRs Matter Now More Than Ever?

By combining vision (Moonshots) with action (Roofshots), OKRs help leaders create a roadmap that inspires teams while keeping them focused on tangible outcomes.

By Definition: 

An OKR is a widely used management tool that sets clear goals and tracks progress. It helps teams stay aligned and focused on achieving measurable results.

Here’s what the leaders at McKinsey, BCG and various experts have confirmed: OKRs are game-changers when approached thoughtfully. When done right, OKRs shift the focus from tasks to outcomes-inspiring teams to aim higher and achieve more.

So, where’s the problem? Many organizations fall into these traps:

• Misalignment of goals with the company’s real priorities.
• Check-the-box culture that focuses on the tasks rather than the outcomes.

The ‘insightful-truth’ from studies and on ground: OKRs aren’t magic-they’re a Discipline and when businesses get them right, they witness significant or even radical outcomes!

The old ways to run an organization or a business don’t work anymore. The global leaders and companies are modernising OKRs with these fresh approaches:

1. Integrating Conversations, Feedback, and Recognition (CFR): 
   Regular check-ins keep OKRs alive and meaningful,  ensuring they’re more than a quarterly ritual.
   
2. Implanting in Digital Workflows: 
   When you link them to everyday work, it’s much easier to see progress and make adjustments on the fly. It also improves tracking and transparency.
   
3. Objective-Directed Goals:
   Leaders are encouraging teams to ask, “What meaningful impact are we aiming for?” rather than “What’s next on the to-do list?”

OKRs Aren’t just a Playbook for the Tech Industry

OKRs can be just as crucial for small and mid-sized businesses, helping them scale without breaking. However, a key requirement is a shift in the business owner’s mindset. SMBs can adopt these best practices:

• Start with one or two OKRs that align with your top business priorities.
• Involve Your Team to co-create OKRs to ensure buy-in and shared ownership. Celebrate the progress towards Roofshots, while keeping your Moonshots in sight.
• Review and Revise your goals regularly as your business progresses

When SMBs adopt OKRs they gain a powerful and scalable framework that drives growth, without the overwhelming complications and complexities.

What If OKRs Could Be More Than Just ‘Objectives and Key Results’?

Are OKRs really the heartbeat of a business? I’d say they can be—if we use them well. 

When leaders connect OKRs to the things that inspire people and align them with what truly matters- your goals, your team’s purpose, and your company’s direction- that’s when the magic happens- OKRs become a catalyst for clarity, focus and momentum.

Think about it:

• When OKRs are done right, they don’t just sit in a slide deck or on a dashboard. 
• They fuel real conversations, push teams to stretch their thinking, and remind everyone why their work matters. 
• They act as the bridge between the big-picture vision and the everyday hustle.

OKRs are so much more than a framework—they’re a mindset. One that scales ambition while rooting you in meaningful action.

Your Next Move Forward

• What’s your take? Have you seen OKRs bring a business to life or fall flat?
• How do you approach OKRs in your business? Do any of these resonate with you? 
• What’s your biggest win (or frustration) with OKRs?
• Which Moonshot are you chasing in 2025?

Drop your thoughts below or DM me—we’ll brainstorm your Roofshots together!