The second train of thought provoked by the INSEAD journey: As highlighted by the inspiring and brilliant Chengyi Lin, strategic and operational decisions are distinct. A company needs to put effort into both to succeed. I believe this does not only apply to businesses but is also applicable to our professional lives. Business leaders often lack resources for strategic thinking, particularly time. They have a lot on their plate handling day-to-day operations. As a lawyer providing professional services, this deeply resonates on a personal level. We are typically so focused on surviving and getting better as experts that we miss the opportunity to think broadly. Who do we want to be as professionals? How do we get there? What are the tools we need? Our work covers many topics outside of law, such as communication and leadership, while clients emphasize big-picture thinking, which ensures that our legal solutions match their business needs. INSEAD provides an invitation to step back. While it is valuable to trust our strengths, it is equally important not to forget the rest of the equation. Being a well-rounded employee, leader, or person is something to strive for. I have learned that there is so much that I do not know yet. Learning new things outside the comfort zone is challenging when your mind is already at full capacity. While it may seem impossible to build an environment fostering strategic thinking, I believe we can improve to facilitate the change. Companies recognize the need, but sustainable change requires habits, which in turn require intention and effort on a personal level. Take a moment to reflect: Do you feel you have enough time and capacity for strategic thinking, or are you challenged by the demands of your daily work? I'd love to hear about your thoughts and experiences!
Chengyi Lin
7mo
Well said, Oliver Vesterlund. Time is a gift ⌛ . Give ourselves the gift of time to think and reflect may be a critical first step to true leadership - for strategy, business, and us as individuals ❤️
Again spot on, Oliver - and great if you’ll keep the reflections coming! The feeling of inspiration and passion to read and learn more is irresistable - but getting there indeed requires time reserved for this very purpose and also someone or a group challenging your own views. Realistically a combination of more spontanious, short but regular moments of learning and reflection (which often already can be the starting point for many good ideas and solutions) and more carefully pre-planned and longer term activity (at best alike the one you are now experiencing but even a much shorter set) could be one way to keep up a good routine. Happy to exchange more thoughts on this during the summer!