How My Surgery Reminded Me of The Power of Strategic Thinking
Twelve years ago, I walked into the oncologist office to sit with my bestie through her chemo treatments. I casually asked the Dr to check out this small lump that I had felt that morning on the back of my neck. Two weeks ago, I removed it and while on the table, I couldn’t help but notice how this decision reminds me of what it takes to be a strategic thinker.
Here’s why…
In today's fast-paced and competitive work environment, strategic thinking is essential for making smart decisions, seizing opportunities, and staying ahead of the game.
Learning to think strategically opens doors for new opportunities.
It is the ability to carefully analyze complex situations, predict future outcomes, and make decisions that align with long-term goals. It means looking at things from different angles, recognizing patterns, and weighing risks and opportunities. When you're a strategic thinker, you see the big picture of your organization and its surroundings, allowing you to make well-informed choices that drive growth and success.
If you want to excel in your career, it’s one skill that can make a big difference.
Here are 3 main reasons:
Better Decision-Making: Strategic thinking helps you make wise decisions by considering both short-term and long-term consequences. For example, if you're a marketing manager, you might analyze market trends, customer preferences, and competitor strategies before deciding on a new advertising campaign. This way, you can choose the most effective approach and achieve better results.
Leaders thinking strategically, seeing the big picture and agreeing for the benefit of all.
Adapting to Change: Strategic thinkers tend to be on the lookout for new trends, shifts in the market, and opportunities due to their willingness to be change ready and change savvy. Let's say you work in the technology industry. By staying informed about emerging technologies and industry developments, you can anticipate changes and proactively adapt yourself and your company's products or services. This adaptability positions you as an innovative and valuable professional in a rapidly changing business world.
Demonstrating Leadership Skills: Strategic thinking demonstrates your ability to think critically, and align your actions with your organization's goals. For example, if you're part of a project team, you might analyze potential risks and benefits, consider different stakeholder perspectives, and propose a strategy that benefits everyone. This showcases your leadership potential and opens doors to higher-level positions.
Strategic Thinking improves with practice.
Here are 3 simple and easy ways to develop it in your everyday life.
Easy ways to develop your strategic thinking ability in your everyday life!
Seeing Different Perspectives: Seek out diverse viewpoints and actively listen to others. If you're planning a team outing, ask for input from team members with different backgrounds and interests. Their perspectives might lead you to choose an activity that everyone will enjoy and benefit from.
Using Analytical Thinking: Sharpen your analytical skills by collecting and analyzing relevant information. For instance, if you're considering buying a new car, gather data about various models, compare prices, and read customer reviews. This analysis will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term goals and budget.
Thinking Long-Term: While it's important to address immediate challenges, think about the long-term impact of your actions. Regularly revisit and refine your goals and objectives, aligning them with the organization's vision. This long-term focus will guide your decision-making and ensure your actions contribute to sustained growth and success.
12 years ago, 3 different Doctors said, “It’s a Lipoma”, - “Leave it, it’ll probably grow back, if you take it out”.
One month ago, 3 different Doctors said, “It’s a Lipoma, it probably won’t grow back, if you take it out”
Then I thought to myself…it’s a lipoma, if it grows back, I’ll just take it out again!
So I did, and I’m healing beautifully with less down-time than my Doctor thought.
Reflecting on the long-term consequences will guide your decisions and help you make choices that lead to future success.
Develop your strategic thinking abilities and position yourself as a valuable professional, open doors to new opportunities and propel your career forward.
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I’m Nadine Seaga and I’m a Mindset & Leadership Coach, Founder & Chief Energy Officer (CEO) of People Development Consultants. I can help you to harness your full potential and the full potential of those you lead! Schedule your Clarity Call Here