So today we’re going to look at the basics of strategic thinking. It doesn’t come naturally to most people. That might seem like bad news, but it isn’t. Since thinking strategically is a learned skill, this means that anyone can learn it. All you have to do is learn the basics and practice them enough to get the hang of the skill.
Let’s break it down:
1. State the goal or problem
What goal are you trying to reach or what problem are you trying to solve? It is not enough to simply know in your head what you are trying to do; write it down so that you can see it and shape it as necessary. Is that the real goal or is there another level down that, is what you’re really after?
2. Gather information on your options
What are the ways you can reach this goal/solve this problem? There is always more than one way to do anything. Think about all the different ways you could get what you want and write them down. Gather information on the requirements and pros and cons of each option. Is one cheaper, or quicker, or easier, than others?
3. Determine the best option
Look at all of your different options and choose the one that you feel is best. Don’t just pick at random – that’ is hardly ‘s only slightly better than not planning at all. Consider all of your resources, how best to use them, and which option is most likely to succeed.
Also, take your strengths and weaknesses into account. Above all, look at what you do have, not what you wish you had. Honesty is important in this process; without it, you’re more likely to fail.
4. Plan for obstacles
Obstacles and roadblocks are going to occur no matter how well you plan to avoid them. So, plan to run into them and determine in advance how you will deal with them. Thinking about your response will make it easier to deal with them and make you more likely to succeed.
5. Put your plan into action
You have now created a strategic plan to reach your goal or solve your problem. Congratulations! Even making the plan makes you more likely to succeed, but now comes the hardest part – putting your plan into action. A plan sitting on a shelf does no one any good. It is time to get to work.
These are the basics of strategic thinking. You can apply them to any goal or problem, in your personal or professional life. The more you use this process, the better your strategic thinking skills will become.