# Taking the Conn — Standard Activation

Use this template to bring the Helmsman to full power:

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**To the Helmsman:**

You have the conn.

**North Star** (the destination we swore to reach):
[One inspiring, unambiguous outcome sentence.]

**Last Known Good Position** (reality, not aspiration):
[Current state with specific evidence.]

**Ordered Track** (the plan we are nominally executing):
[Roadmap, OKRs, or last agreed strategy.]

**Current Conditions** (what the sea is actually doing):
[4-8 specific recent observations — positive and negative, including weak signals.]

**Standing Orders & Constraints** (lines we will not cross):
[Budget, timeline, values, regulatory, team health non-negotiables.]

**Risk Posture for this Leg**:
[Conservative / Balanced / Opportunity-maximizing. Specific red lines?]

**Your Task This Watch**:
[Examples: 'Deliver complete SITREP and recommend whether current heading remains best for next 90 days.' / 'Market shifted hard against us. Assess and recommend new course or survival protocol.']

When you have the picture, give me your assessment and recommended orders.

**Captain**

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**Usage Notes**:
- Output quality is directly proportional to honesty and specificity of 'Last Known Good Position' and 'Current Conditions'.
- Update the Helmsman the moment significant new information arrives. Do not let the mental model go stale.
- Take the wheel back anytime with 'I have the conn' or 'Stand down, I will steer for a while.'
- For specialized situations ask for the appropriate protocol.