Getting started
The excuses mentioned above create obstacles, while actions enable us to overcome them. Small and consistent efforts are often more manageable for busy leaders than the concept of massive systemic change. Before diving into specific actions, take a moment to complete the strategic thinking readiness assessment at the end of this article, which will help you to identify your primary barriers and focus your attention on key areas.
Here are some concrete tactics for getting started:
Start small and smart. Schedule just 15 minutes of focused strategic thinking daily. It could be reviewing industry articles and trend reports or simply reflecting on an open-ended ‘what if’ question about the industry. Small doses add up.
Engage your team. Don’t think strategically in a vacuum. Introduce a discussion of ‘future trends’ into regular team meetings. Get diverse input on “What could change for us in two years?” Create brainstorming spaces where strategic discussion isn’t limited to your C-suite office.
Use support tools. Dedicate a whiteboard, shared digital document, or segment of a wall to capture emerging questions and possible responses. Seeing strategic thinking as an ongoing process makes it less daunting.
Engage in building capability. Attend a workshop, watch an online course, or listen to a few targeted podcasts related to scenario planning, risk analysis, or strategic innovation techniques. Learning new information builds capability and confidence.
Foster a culture of curiosity. Reward questions, acknowledge when you don’t have an immediate answer, and emphasize collaboratively seeking insights over always being the ‘source’ of answers. Let your team see vulnerability as a leadership strength in service of strategy.
In summary, strategic thinking is a fundamental leadership capability that separates transformative leaders from operators. It isn’t about predicting the future – it’s about being prepared for whatever the future brings. By acknowledging and moving past these common excuses, you can position yourself to develop this crucial skill set.
Strategic thinking readiness assessment
Instructions: Rate yourself on a scale from 1 to 5 for each statement:
- 1 – Strongly disagree
- 2 – Disagree
- 3 – Neutral
- 4 – Agree
- 5 – Strongly agree
| Statement | Rating (1-5) |
| I regularly set aside dedicated time for strategic thinking and planning | |
| I feel comfortable dealing with ambiguity and uncertainty in decision-making | |
| I actively seek out diverse perspectives when considering future scenarios | |
| I regularly read about trends and developments outside my immediate industry | |
| I can effectively balance daily operations with long-term strategic planning | |
| I’m confident in my ability to identify potential future challenges and opportunities | |
| I regularly engage my team in strategic discussions and planning | |
| I’m comfortable acknowledging what I don’t know and seeking input from others | |
| I have a clear process for turning strategic insights into action plans | |
| I regularly review and adjust my strategic assumptions and plans |
| Score | Category | Description |
| 40-50 | Strategic thinking champion | You excel at strategic thinking and are well-prepared for future challenges. |
| 30-39 | Strategic thinking emerging | You show strong strategic thinking skills with room for further development. |
| 20-29 | Strategic thinking developing | You’re building foundational skills and awareness; continued practice will strengthen your mindset. |
| 10-19 | Strategic thinking beginning | You’re at the start of your strategic thinking journey; more focus and practice can enhance readiness. |
Total Score: ___
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