Be Strategic in Every Decision

Life is comprised of the decisions we make. We decide to go to the gym, learn new skills, cook our own food, argue with our spouse, unnecessarily scold our children. Our decisions shape us into the person we will become, into the person others look up to or look down upon.

The decisions of our lives have consequences; something will happen based on what we said, what we typed and sent, what we ate. Those decisions can lead to positive or less favorable outcomes. How do we control these outcomes and consequences? How do we ensure the decisions we make are moving us towards our ideal? By being strategic.

Employ strategy with every decision you make. Think about the goals you have—the problems you want to solve—and if the decision you're contemplating is aligned with that goal. Ponder the possible consequences of your actions. Consider the different paths that can transpire. Explore the potential landscapes before you act.

Devise strategies to reach your goals, solve your problems, avoid enemies, and gain influence. Think ahead and plan your actions so that you move closer to your ideal state. Side-step potholes that will derail you and continue on the path to achieve what you desire.

Don't stumble around in life, maneuver through it. Be strategic.

If there is an ideal to aim for, it should be that of the strategic warrior, the man or woman who manages difficult situations and people through deft and intelligent maneuver. (Greene, 2007, xvi)

References

Greene, Robert. 2007. The 33 Strategies of War. New York: Penguin Books.

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