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Strategy Basics

In the last article, we discussed a very simple example of using strategy to determine the actions to take to accomplish a goal. In that example, there were 3 factors that needed to be taken into account and one red herring (misleading clue):
Factors:
  • How quickly I need to get there (i.e. when the bus will arrive)
  • Traffic Patterns
  • Risk of crossing the street on a red light
Red herring:
  • Which light changed to green first

Every situation is unique, and must be analyzed to understand which aspects are relevant. You have to determine what you can use to your advantage and what obstacles should be avoided.


There are 5 high level concepts involved in a successful strategy. 

Determination
Your determination to achieve your objective must be greater than the forces in play to prevent it.

Timing
They say that timing is everything. The same actions will have different effects depending on when they are done.

Environment
Your environment is the field that the game is being played on. Know the people involved and how they react to different stimuli. Understand the possible pitfalls and risks. Determine who will help you and who will oppose you.

Leadership/Direction
Develop a vision of not only the specific objective that you want to achieve, but also everything that surrounds it. Show leadership by taking responsibility. Build a support system of both people who mentor you as well as people who you mentor.

Methodology
Write an implementation plan that includes the objective and all the obstacles that you believe are blocking you. Go through all the obstacles one at a time and determine what needs to be done to mitigate them.


Understanding these 5 concepts will enable you to achieve your objectives and overcome obstacles.

In the next article, we’ll go through a practical example of using strategy to get a promotion

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