How to think strategically

5 key stages of strategic thinking

1. Align to your vision: When you're clear about what you want, you're able to describe it in vivid detail. You know a little something about what it will take to get there and how it will feel to arrive.
2. Ask questions: Now that you've connected with what your vision or goal is, it's time to start asking yourself the right questions. "What is my vision or goal? What do I have to do to get there?"
3. Give it some thought: There are three approaches to this. The first is the analytical approach. Write the answers down to the questions you asked yourself in step two, and be as detailed as possible. This approach serves those who are thinkers and need clarity. The second approach is the collaborative approach. For those who are more socially minded and thrive on brainstorming, set up a meeting and get others involved in discussing matters of strategy. You invite many coworkers with varied areas of expertise and ask whatever your big questions are. The last approach is a meditative approach. This helps individuals who are not trying to "figure things out," necessarily, but rather want to clear some space and become quiet enough to hear their intuition.
4. Plan: Creating your "plan" means identifying your action items, both short-term and long-term, that will help you reach your goal. Use the clarity and focus you've gained in step one and put it into a practical course of action
5. Diagram; Think without words. Diagramming, mindmapping, brainstorming, drawing pictures, mocking up graphs and charts--all of these forms of "thinking" stimulate your creativity and can break you out of the box