The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking

Outline

The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking (2024) shows leaders how to develop the ability to think strategically. Michael D. Watkins explains six disciplines: recognising patterns, analysing complex systems, thinking ahead to anticipate others’ moves, solving problems creatively, envisioning possible futures, and making the right strategic choices. The book offers practical exercises to help leaders sharpen these skills.

• Strategic thinking is a skill leaders can build deliberately, not a trait some people are simply born with.
• Recognising patterns and analysing complex systems help you see how a situation actually works before you act.
• Thinking ahead means anticipating the moves other people are likely to make, not only planning your own.
• Creative problem solving and envisioning possible futures widen your options beyond the obvious choice.
• The book's practical exercises help leaders sharpen each of the six disciplines, ending in better strategic choices.

Michael D. Watkins is a Canadian-born leadership expert and professor at IMD Business School in Switzerland, known for his work on leadership transitions. He co-founded Genesis Advisers, a leadership development firm. His books include The First 90 Days, which became a global bestseller, and The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking.