Hi. My name is Steve and I'm an inconsistent blogger. It's true. I think my last post in this column was back in September. I'd go ahead and apologize for my lack of posting but I've done that in a previous post after a much shorter hiatus. So, I will keep it simple: I will try really really hard to do better. Now, on with this post!
I've given a lot of thought lately to Strategic Thinking. Most of us at one time or another have completed or participated in creating a Strategic Plan. Strategic Planning usually includes a process around setting goals, strategies and actions (and sometimes just creating a binder for our shelves). Let me be clear: Strategic Planning is not the same as Strategic Thinking. It's not even close.
I define Strategic Thinking as a process of developing vision and direction. It's being able to see where you need to be even if you can't articulate all the steps to get there. Strategic Thinkers have a unique ability to gather information from the past and present, mix it with a good idea of what the future will be, and come up with the idea that will take your organization to the next level. Strategic Thinkers operate from the gut and amazingly, are more often right then wrong. The bottom line, Strategic Thinkers will show your organization the next great thing and the Strategic Planners will take you there.
Today, nonprofit and government organizations are facing a future that probably looks very different from a past most of us can remember. Budget deficits and a tough economy are limiting funding. Our politics are polarized with emotions running strong. At the same time, the needs our organizations serve are greater than ever. I believe one way out of this mess is a good dose of Strategic Thinking. We need to understand where we've been, where we need to be, and how to get there. Only Strategic Thinkers can define the Where and How.
The answer for each organization is different and should be guided by your mission. We have to understand that what worked in the past is input to but not the solution for the future. Strategic Thinking can help us develop the vision we need to succeed in the future. The people we serve are depending on it.
My challenge: Find that Strategic Thinker for your organization (you could already have one). Unleash that person. Then, let the planners guide you. It might just work. Please give me your comments and let me know about Strategic Thinking in your organization.