AbstractThe most popular current management programs have often been proven inadequate at preventing and correcting organizational decline and failure. Meanwhile, the risks of sudden, sharp downturns or failures are increasing. What can organizations do to ensure sustained high performance?A multiyear study of some 600 organizations revealed a number of lessons and best practices that can help prevent significant declines and help managers obtain superior financial outcomes. This article examines those practices and offers a self‐assessment instrument to help managers effectively devise a winning gameplan for the future.