Strategic Thinking in Uncertain Times
Recently, a conversation with a friend left me reflecting on the value of strategic thinking and planning. They asked, “What’s the point of being strategic? Everything is so uncertain – why bother when everything can change so quickly?” At the time, I didn’t have a ready response, but their question made me think deeply about the role of strategic thinking in today’s world.
It’s true – our world is more unpredictable than ever. A pandemic, climate disaster, or even political upheaval can disrupt everything in an instant. On a more gradual scale, shifts in societal values, changing demographics, and evolving workplace dynamics are all forces we must contend with. With so much uncertainty, one might wonder: Why bother setting strategic priorities at all? Should we just react to whatever comes our way and focus on business as usual?
While change is nothing new, the speed at which it occurs today is unprecedented. The flow of information—both accurate and misleading—is relentless, and it’s clear that this pace isn’t going to slow down any time soon.
In this context, is strategic planning still relevant? Absolutely. In fact, it’s more critical now than ever. Strategic thinking isn’t just about drafting a plan; it’s about developing a core leadership competency that helps us navigate the unknown. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a project, or influencing decisions in your role, cultivating this skill empowers you to respond with agility and intentionality.
Strategic thinking is a muscle that, when developed, becomes second nature. It helps us make better choices, day in and day out, no matter what comes our way. By building this muscle, leaders at all levels can approach decisions with a long-term perspective, even when the future is uncertain.
There are several key skills and approaches in strategic planning that are not only helpful for developing a formal strategy but also indispensable when facing everyday challenges. Let’s explore some of these core skills:
Time Management
Effective time management is foundational to strategic planning. In a world full of distractions and urgent demands, the ability to prioritize effectively is critical. Leaders at all levels must manage their time with intention, ensuring that they focus on long-term goals while handling daily tasks. Strong time management ensures we stay grounded and progress toward what matters most, even when uncertainty looms.
Systems Thinking
Systems thinking allows us to see the broader landscape, helping us understand how different parts of a system are interconnected. By recognizing these connections, we are better equipped to anticipate how changes in one area might impact others. Whether it’s about managing a team, overseeing a project, or handling individual responsibilities, this holistic perspective helps us make more informed, adaptive decisions, even when faced with shifting circumstances.
Environmental Scanning
Environmental scanning involves gathering and analyzing information about external trends, shifts, and potential risks. In times of uncertainty, this practice is vital. By staying informed about what’s happening outside our immediate circle—whether in the economy, industry, or society—we can anticipate shifts and adjust our strategies proactively. Environmental scanning helps leaders at every level stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions that contribute to their teams’ success.
Assessing Current Reality
To move forward strategically, we must first understand where we stand. Assessing our current reality involves evaluating internal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Whether you’re leading a small project, a team, or a department, understanding your current situation is crucial in making decisions about how to move forward. This step is essential in uncertain times, as it helps us make informed decisions and avoid potential blind spots.
Determining a Desired Future State or Vision
A clear vision provides direction, especially when the road ahead is unclear. Leaders who can articulate a compelling vision help teams stay motivated, focused, and aligned. Whether leading a project or influencing a team’s goals, a strong vision serves as a guide, helping us navigate change and stay focused on what we want to achieve, even when uncertainty is high.
Identifying Strategic Priorities
In the midst of constant change, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with numerous opportunities and challenges. Strategic leaders are able to identify which priorities will have the greatest impact on achieving long-term goals. By narrowing our focus and aligning efforts with what truly matters, we ensure that our team or project is directing energy toward the most critical objectives. This clarity is essential, especially when faced with uncertainty.
These skills, in my view, are the building blocks of strategic thinking and planning. But they aren’t just useful for crafting formal strategies; they are also essential for everyday leadership.
By integrating strategic thinking into our daily practices, we equip ourselves to handle long-term and everyday challenges with greater adaptability. These skills provide the clarity and focus needed to move forward with purpose.
In these times when change is the only constant, leaders who can think strategically will be the ones who thrive. They will have the foresight to prepare for the future, the agility to adapt in the moment, and the wisdom to lead their teams toward success—especially with the uncertainty that lies ahead.
Kwela’s Vision to Action: Working Strategically workshop teaches participants a methodology that culminates in the development of actionable plans.
Laura Villacrusis, Partner
laurav@kwelaleadership.com
