We are not omnipotent, but all of us can influence our destiny. We can do much more than we know. How to master the art of strategy?
What are strategy and strategists?
The origin of the word strategy is in Greek – the words stratos (army) and agein (lead). „Strategy“ is then derived from the word strategos (an army general).
The main meaning of strategy is long-term planning to help achieve a set goal or goals. The strategy describes how the goal will be achieved. The person responsible for crafting such a plan is called strategist.
„The essence of strategy is choosing what not to do.“
Michael Porter
A corporate strategy
Each company's strategy should articulate the right goals, lay out a plan of how to realize them and how to deal effectively with obstacles.
Every business must be clear about what it does and which target group it serves, have its short-term goals and a compelling vision of the future.
A strategy is not only an art of real life but also a highly developed science. To be effective and useful a strategy must be:
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simple,
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understandable,
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attractive,
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applicable
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time-efficient
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adaptable.
Successful people think strategically
One of the most important qualities of a true leader in the art of strategic thinking. Every capable manager and, in our opinion, even an ordinary citizen should be able to do this.
Those, who can do it, will become successful. But not all great strategists have a God-given talent for it. That’s good news for everyone – it’s a skill that can be learned and perfected!
As an aspiring strategist, you should do your best to improve your skills in a way that:
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You can predict and search for information.
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You can think critically and are not afraid to ask for more information.
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You collect information from different sources and then form your opinion.
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You never stop learning.
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You can choose the right solution and decide when it is needed.
Great strategists of the past
There have been countless strategists in the history who, thanks to their abilities, have proved what a difference a good strategy can make.
Many of them showed their skills in battles and leading armies, where the mastered art of strategy is most visible.
Sun-Tzu
Sun-Tzu was born around the fifth century BC and is considered the "father of strategy". He wrote the "The Art of War", which deals with military strategy, and is the most famous military manual of all time.
Sun-Tzu has been recognized as a brilliant strategist, and some of his lessons are still used by people today. Grasping these concepts helps entrepreneurs better understand business management, especially in countries such as China, Japan or Korea.
Gaius Julius Caesar
The Roman commander, politician and one of the most powerful men of Antiquity is seen by military historians as one of the most capable strategists in the history of military.
Despite some defeats, he demonstrated the tactical genius in battle as well as in the treatment of his soldiers and during his political career.
Napoleon Bonaparte
Born in Corsica, this famous military general founded the French Empire in 1804 and became its emperor. His people loved him and thought he was invulnerable and could not be defeated.
Probably the most famous victory came in the Battle of Austerlitz, where he managed to win over the Allies of the Russian Empire and the Holy Roman Empire. He had not so many soldiers or equipment, yet he could defeat the two powers. Unfortunately, not even the best strategy can ensure your success when you forget about the Russian winter.
Carl von Clausewitz
This Prussian general was an important war strategist and theorist. His work and ideas have significantly influenced many strategic theories and to this day, his writings are studied by those who want to learn more about war, strategy and international relations.
His famous quote is: "War is merely a continuation of politics by other means"
Winston Churchill
Sir Winston Churchill was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He became famous mainly during World War II. No doubt he led an interesting life - there are many controversial stories about his.
Today, he is considered a brilliant strategist who was partly a true savior and partly a scapegoat.