Author: George Liacos
How to think more strategically: Space to Think: Example (Part 2)
Have you ever been able to think strategically when your mind is full of noise?
We build our strategic thinking muscle using a range of techniques and tools as outlined in my book Spark Change.
The seventh Spark I’d like to introduce you to is Space to Think. Let’s share with you an example.
How to think more strategically: clear the clutter
There are two dimensions to giving something space. The first is about clearing away clutter and focusing on the matter at hand. The second is about purposefully pushing the matter into the subconscious processing part of your brain, letting your subconscious do some of the heavy lifting behind the scenes, and then returning to focus on it later.
I do both and often.
For me, this type of strategic thinking goes as follows:
- Set aside clear, quiet and bounded time to initially focus on the matter (use some of the other Sparks during this allotted time).
- At the end of the allotted time, diarise another time, about two days out, to revisit the matter.
- Redeploy some of the other Sparks during this revisit (choose these based on the type of matter or problem) and brainstorm your response on your whiteboard.
- Sense-check your thinking with others using the following two steps.
- Send them material to review and ask them to read it a couple of days prior to seeking their thoughts.
- Chat with them a few days later.
How to think more strategically: how to embed ‘space to think’
For those keen to embed this ethos within their organisational fabric, consider the following steps:
- Dedicate time: Institutionalise reflection periods. Whether it’s a dedicated hour once a week or a strategic offsite once a month, ensure there’s time earmarked for contemplation.
- Create a conducive environment: This isn’t just about a physical space, but also about cultivating a culture where deep thinking is valued. Encourage your team to disconnect from digital distractions.
- Promote diverse inputs: Encourage team members to draw inspiration from varied sources – books, seminars, even nature walks. Different perspectives enrich strategic thought.
- Document and revisit: Ensure reflections are documented. Revisit them periodically, allowing ideas to evolve over time.
- Act with purpose: Post reflection, ensure there’s a structured avenue to channel those insights into actionable strategies.
- Iterate: reflect on your reflections. This meta-analysis ensures continuous improvement in the very way you think.
You will see that these tools are not just things to read or use; they are behaviours and cultural development techniques. This Spark calls for us to cross disciplinary boundaries and go beyond our logic.
Resources & Support
This is why I wrote the book Spark Change, developed the Strategic Thinking Masterclass, and have released The Spark Strategic Leader ™ Subscription Program – all to help our sector’s leaders build the strategic thinking muscle.
Contact us at info@sparkstrategy.com.au to find out more.
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