Navigating the Complexity of Strategy: A Deeper Look
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Understanding Strategy's True Nature
In his insightful book, May Contain Lies, Alex Edmans shares an intriguing anecdote about the Atkins diet. In 1972, Dr. Robert Atkins, an American cardiologist, released Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution, which quickly became the best-selling diet book of all time. However, Edmans points out that this surge in popularity wasn’t due to scientific validation; rather, Atkins's approach was astonishingly straightforward: eliminate all carbohydrates.
Edmans posits that the book could have achieved similar success even if Atkins had advocated for an increase in carb consumption. The key to its triumph lay in its simplicity.
Since I began sharing content on platforms like LinkedIn, Medium, and Substack two years ago, I've connected with numerous virtual friends and engaged in countless enriching discussions. I extend my gratitude to these friends for their insightful posts and conversations.
Yet, I often encounter posts about strategy that resemble the 'Atkins diet' approach. The authors tend to assert that strategy is straightforward, often reducing it to a mere 'three questions' or 'five steps.' If strategy were truly that uncomplicated, every organization would thrive effortlessly. The reality is that even the most successful companies must diligently work to evolve and adapt.
Strategy is inherently complex. It demands a unique perspective and a different mode of thinking.
In my latest mini book, Red and Yellow Strategies: Flip Your Strategic Thinking and Overcome Short-termism, I delve into the foundational aspects of strategic thinking. What does it really mean to "do business"? Why is a strategy essential? Can we apply the same strategies across varying contexts?
This book is not merely a textbook or a formulaic guide; rather, it invites readers to collaboratively explore the essence of business and strategic thought. I hope you find the mini book enlightening — discover more about it here.
Read also: Are you aware of the connection between your thoughts and actions? The strategic significance of feedback loops. Join my free newsletter for innovative articles on strategic thought.
Section 1.1 Exploring the Simplicity of Strategy
Section 1.2 The Misconceptions of Strategic Planning
Chapter 2 Rethinking Strategy's Framework
The first video, "Why Is Strategy So Hard To Define?" explores the challenges in defining strategy, highlighting common misconceptions and complexities inherent in strategic planning.
The second video, "Roger Martin - What is Strategy? Planning is not Strategy (Full version)" dives into the distinction between strategy and mere planning, providing a deeper understanding of what constitutes effective strategic thinking.