Effective leadership requires more than just experience; it demands a strategic approach to navigate complexities and drive success. In today’s episode of The Small Business Show, Michael Watkins, renowned author and co-founder of Genesis Advisers, discusses his latest book, The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking, and key takeaways to help leaders better lead their organizations.
Watkins highlights how urgent it is for leaders to grow their skill sets as we move into turbulent, unprecedented times. The key to success is through strategic thinking.
He defines strategic thinking as the mental disciplines leaders use to recognize emerging threats and opportunities, establish the right priorities, and mobilize their organization to respond.
His book delves into six disciplines that make up the foundation of strategic thinking. However, the three more fundamental disciplines are:
Pattern Recognition
The ability to see through complexities and noise to identify what is and isn’t a priority.
System Analysis
Looking at the world through the lens of systems allows leaders to understand feedback loops and tipping points better. It makes it easier to simplify complex situations.
Mental Agility
The speed at which individuals can intentionally shift their thinking between high-level and detailed thinking.
The remaining three disciplines are geared toward helping leaders mobilize their teams and organizations more effectively.
Being politically savvy was the discipline that surprised readers the most. It’s a skill that most leaders shy away from, but it’s crucial. Understanding how to strategically and systematically navigate an organization’s politics allows leaders to build alliances, exert influence, and turn challenges into opportunities.
The strongest and most effective leaders are those who demonstrate a mastery of all six disciplines and are strategic thinkers. Naturally, most leaders may excel in one discipline and struggle in another. The key is to take a step back, reflect, and identify those areas where improvement is needed. The leaders who do are better equipped for success.
"I'm often asked: are great strategic thinkers born or [are they] made? You have to be born with some stuff, but you also have to work super hard. It's a mix." – Michael Watkins
