Thinking Strategically

Abstract

The need for physician leaders to think in ways that positively affect not just the here and now, but also the long term value of the healthcare enterprise, has never been greater. Thinking strategically (or strategic thinking) is a skill business leaders use to effectively and proactively respond to the increased rate of environmental change, and to make better choices when things matter. While accomplished professionals often equate educational and professional success, in part, due to their thinking abilities, much of our day to day thinking is significantly flawed. Strategic thinking is defined as the cognitive and social processes required to collect, generate, interpret, and evaluate information and ideas that shape an organization’s superior performance. As a mindset, strategic thinking is both an individual and a collective process. No one leader possesses all of the knowledge, skills, experience, and understanding to tackle the “wicked problems” that did not even exist a few years ago, or to the depth seen today, or among different market forces. A strategic mindset focuses on the present and the future, and encompasses both an artful side as well as a rigorous and analytical side. Physician leaders can develop their strategic thinking skills through both individual learning and through developmental assignments. As they to continue to pay attention to their own awareness and competence, they will improve their effectiveness in leading teams, and in designing and executing organization-level initiatives.