HOA wants to create staggered terms for elected board members

We are a HOA in New Hampshire consisting of 41 detached homes. We have a five member board of directors. We are interested in creating staggered terms for our board of directors with the idea of establishing continuity and maintaining the high standard of work ethic and procedures that our board has established. Initially we would not do a by-law change, but would run this under our Rules to Live By. Once the policy is established and running we would do a bylaw change. Could you tell me of your asspociation's experience creating staggered terms. Thanks, Barry