Want to be a Strategic Thinker?
Strategic thinkers are valued in today’s business world and there aren’t enough of them around. Thinking strategically can help anyone—whether you are just starting your business career, have been working for a while, or if you own your own small business, you will benefit from increasing your ability to think strategically.
What is strategic thinking? Here is a definition that may help: Strategic thinking is the ability to analyze situations, identify patterns and anticipate potential outcomes with a long-term perspective. Strategic thinking goes beyond day-to-day problem solving and embraces a broader vision considering the immediate and future implications of actions and decisions.
Are you someone who would like to become more of a strategic thinker but don’t believe it can be learned? Here is some information that may change your mind and help you become more of a strategic thinker after all.
Start by slowing down. I know that is counter intuitive in today’s fast paced world, but taking time before you make a major decision or move in a new direction can help your productivity. Don’t rush into doing something that you haven’t taken the necessary time to decide if it really is the right way to go.
Use your analytical skills to think through the pros and cons of any action you plan to take. If you personally don’t possess strong analytical skills, utilize the skills of someone in your organization or find a resource you can depend on to help you think it through.
Accept that you don’t have all the answers. Consider who might have the answers, and take time to gather information from them.
Recognize that you have something to learn. Coming to terms with that fact will increase your strategic thinking skills. Unfortunately, sometimes ego gets in the way of strategic thinking. One of the ways to become a more strategic thinker is to learn from others.
Find a mentor who possesses excellent strategic thinking skills and learn from them. Schedule time together in person or virtually where you can pose questions and ask them how they would approach the situation. The mentor relationship can have a powerful impact on your personal growth, so carefully select and listen to your chosen mentor.
Be a lifelong learner. There are tremendous resources available to us today. Listen to podcasts of people who think strategically. Take advantage of the many free webinars on the internet, read articles and books to help you become more of a strategic thinker.
Keep your mission and vision at the top of mind. When you are focused on long-term success, you will make more strategic decisions. Your focus will not be on the quickness, but rather on the quality of a decision. In other words, you will be on your way to being a strategic thinker.
There is more information on strategic thinking on page 42 of The Manager’s Answer Book that you may find useful.