7 Ways to Be More Strategic
What does it mean to be strategic? Webster defined it as, “relating to the identification of long term or overall aims and interest in the means of achieving them.” Being “strategic” can be thought of a way of being to achieve goals.
Sometimes understanding comes from knowing what something is not. Being “strategic” as a leader can be thought of as the opposite of leading by default. What does that mean? When you lead or live in default mode, it is without purpose. Like a ship adrift on the sea without a rudder, someone who is not strategic can have movement or advancement but when they “arrive,” it is not purposeful, aligned with their goals and intentions and will not fuel them for long.
Much has been written about strategic thinking, but it is just one element to being strategic. Strategic thinking often entails critical thinking skills to solve complex problems. Strategic thinking as a full operating suite also includes analytical thinking, communication skills and problem-solving skills.
While it is generally thought of as a skillset to be strategic, researchers at Stanford University have identified it as a mindset as well. In their study, they concluded that a strategic mindset impacts how effectively individuals pursue their goals. Individuals with a strategic mindset demonstrate a willingness to search for answers to the questions - Is there a better way to do this? How else can I do this? What else can I do to help myself? These individuals readily tap into their strategic skillset during new challenges after approaching it from a series of questions they pose to themselves.
Being strategic is a way of being in work and life that stems from the intention to commit to the pursuit of overall interests, aims and goals in a meaningful, purposeful way. Here are some steps to move beyond the mere intention of being strategic to full on execution and implementation.
1 IDENTIFY A GOAL
You can’t begin to be strategic without first identifying a goal or series of goals that your strategy is built around. Where is it that you want to get to? What milestone are you aiming for? What is that one thing you want to achieve this year? Clearly articulate the “destination” you are shooting for so that you can track your progress and know when you have reached your goal.
2 ASSESS WHERE YOU ARE STARTING FROM
Now that you know where you are going, it is equally important to know where you are starting from. What skills do you have? What experiences, knowledge, or expertise contributes to your thought leadership? How about education or certification? Is there more formalized education required for you to reach your goal? Are there limitations or restrictions that exist that need to be taken into consideration?
3. SUPPORT IT WITH DATA
Do your homework. Dig and then dig again. Discover research, perspectives, data, and other facts that will help guide you in pursuit of your goals. Conduct analysis but not to the point of paralysis. Determine upfront how much data is necessary to test and support your strategy and then move on.
4 PRIORITIZE
To be strategic, you must hold steadfast to your vision of the goals and prioritize accordingly. Resist distractions and distractors. Prioritize the steps you need to take to implement and fully execute your strategy.
5. DETERMINE WHO CAN SUPPORT YOU ON THE JOURNEY
There is a saying, “if you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.” In pursuit of a strategy or while being committed to being strategic, enlist the help, resources, ideas, and support of others.
6. TAKE A PULSE
In the course of being strategic in work and life, take moments to reflect, check in and evaluate. Pinpoint where you are in conjunction with where you are going. Take stock in how you feel and what your energy level is along the journey.
7. PLAN AND PRACTICE GOOD MANAGEMENT SKILLS
You don’t have to be a leader or manager to be strategic, however exercising good management skills benefits everyone. Being strategic requires the core management skills of planning, communication, decision-making and problem-solving.
Someone who is strategic possesses more than skillsets, or a mindset alone. To truly be considered strategic is to adapt a new way of being. BEING strategic is fueled by solid execution and implementation of a game plan towards your goals. The steps outlined here will put you well on the path to success as someone others consider as “strategic.”