What is strategic thinking?
Strategic thinking is a way of thinking about an organisation or business. The best way of explaining the main principles of strategic thinking is to compare them with the principles of non-strategic thinking. Strategic thinking focuses on the long term rather than the short-term. It focuses on the big picture and the small picture, as opposed to just focusing on the small picture. Strategic thinking is both analytical and creative, while non-strategic thinking tends to be one or the other. A key principle of strategic thinking is that it takes a critical approach to current practices within the business and is not afraid to suggest changes. Strategic thinkers focus on how they can use what they already have to their maximum advantage. Finally, strategic thinkers treat their conclusions as hypotheses because their findings are always partly based on inaccurate information or predictions.

What makes a good strategic thinker?
Good strategic thinkers have to be able to do two main things: to look ahead and see where the business is going and, at the same time, to focus on what is happening around him. He needs to be prepared to change direction quickly and combine planning with good business management. The best strategic thinkers are constantly reviewing the latest trends. They know what their competitors are doing and are continuously adapting. They see opportunities because they are looking out for them. The best strategic thinkers are in two places at once: the future and the 'here and now'.

Some practical tips for developing strategic thinking at work.

• Identify your goals or the goals of the business and have a brainstorming session with colleagues to identify the possible obstacles to and opportunities for achieving these goals.

• Build your goals and objectives around a strategic plan. Make sure they are realistic.

• Review the strategic plans of other organisations. Many are available on the internet.

• Volunteer to take part in a planning committee or a task force so that you have a chance to get involved in strategic planning.

• Choose an objective within the organisation that requires a long-term plan. Create the plan and specify a date when you intend to complete it. Add interim objectives and measure your progress by reviewing these objectives at regular intervals.

• Regularly review the goals in your long-term plan and do not be afraid of changing them if they become unrealistic.

• Identify colleagues who seem to be good strategic thinkers with well-defined plans. Ask them for advice on how to meet your objectives.