Think Like a Strategist: The Art of Strategic Thinking in a Modern World

Strategic thinking is a skill that distinguishes great leaders from mere participants. Some people are born with a natural ability to think strategically, others learn it over time, while some simply remain spectators, passively watching as the world moves around them. However, the truth is that anyone can become a strategist. Strategic thinking is not reserved for a select few; it can be cultivated with deliberate effort, practice, and a willingness to step outside of conventional thinking. A strategist is not lazy, nor do they rely on mere luck or wishful thinking. They understand that they always have options, but not an overwhelming number of choices. A skilled strategist works within a manageable set of alternatives, usually three or four routes, that are thoughtfully evaluated and executed. Unlike the passive participant, a strategist is proactive, seeking opportunities even in uncertain or challenging situations.

Becoming a strategist is not a matter of chance; it is a deliberate, learned process. At the core of strategic thinking lies the ability to understand your environment. This involves observing patterns, anticipating potential outcomes, and asking questions that others might hesitate to ask. The goal is to seek answers that lead to action, not just knowledge. A strategist is always learning, continuously refining their ability to adapt and respond to new information and circumstances. Several disciplines and practices can enhance and sharpen one’s strategic mindset. One key tool is game theory, which involves analyzing interactions and predicting the behavior of others, much like in a game of tennis where each player anticipates their opponent’s next move. Understanding these dynamics allows strategists to plan several steps ahead, giving them a significant advantage in decision-making.

Additionally, riddles and thought exercises can serve as mental workouts, fostering deep, critical thinking that extends beyond the present. A well-known riddle about crossing a river with a lion, a goat, and a yam illustrates this concept perfectly. The challenge is to move all three items across without leaving the lion and goat together (since the lion would eat the goat) or the goat and yam together (since the goat would eat the yam). The solution requires careful planning, foresight, and the ability to think several steps ahead, this is a key element of strategic thinking. Strategy is not confined to a single situation; it is the ability to transfer knowledge, experience, and patterns from one context to another. The true power of a strategist lies in the ability to take lessons learned in one environment and apply them to a completely unfamiliar one. This adaptability is vital in today’s rapidly changing world.

In a century driven by disruptive technologies, it is more important than ever for students, graduates, and educated citizens to think outside the box. Strategic thinking involves aligning one’s mindset with broader possibilities, looking at problems from both vertical and horizontal perspectives. This approach allows individuals to navigate uncharted territories and create innovative solutions. Throughout history, there have been individuals whose names have become synonymous with strategic brilliance. These individuals have left legacies that continue to speak volumes, shaping industries, nations, and societies. Whether they are leaders in politics, business, or the military, strategists inspire admiration and respect.

In Nigeria, figures like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Aliko Dangote, General Sani Abacha, and current leaders such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Abike Dabiri, the then Minister for Foreign Affairs, are prime examples. Their stories remind us that strategic thinking is not limited to those born with privilege. Through deliberate, calculated efforts, these leaders rose to prominence, overcoming barriers and pushing beyond limits. Their ability to identify opportunities, navigate challenges, and maintain a long-term vision is what defines them as strategists.

So, how does one become a strategist? The first step is simple: be an observer. A strategist is someone who watches, listens, and learns. There are always people who have already travelled the path you are on. By observing their journeys, how they overcame challenges and solved problems, you can learn invaluable lessons. History often repeats itself, and success tends to follow predictable patterns. While life is not as predictable as a math equation, there are patterns and lessons that can be gleaned from the experiences of others.

Moreover, many of the greatest strategists in history were avid readers and writers. They shared their knowledge and experiences in books, offering a treasure trove of wisdom for those willing to learn. Reading is the modern miracle that transforms the ignorant into the knowledgeable, the poor into the wealthy, and the foolish into the wise strategist. Therefore, a key piece of advice for anyone aspiring to become a strategist is simple: read, read, and read. The knowledge contained within books can unlock new ways of thinking, spark innovative ideas, and accelerate personal growth.

There are numerous books that explore the art of strategy, each offering unique insights. Three essential works on strategic thinking are: Art of War is by Sun Tzu, What Makes the Great Great: Strategies for Extraordinary Achievement is written by Dr Dennis Kimbro, "You Can Negotiate Anything" by Herb Cohen and "The 48 Laws of Power" by Robert Greene These books are more than just theoretical, they are practical guides that provide real-world examples of how strategy plays out in everyday life. If you want to develop your strategic mindset, don't just borrow these books, buy them. Make it a habit to read them regularly, gaining new insights with each read. One of the most important lessons of strategy is that learning never stops.

I can personally attest to the value of Robert Greene’s "The 48 Laws of Power". My first reading of the book was during my undergraduate years when I was running for president in a student election. My opponent? None other than my own roommate. It was a highly competitive race, and I needed to win without damaging our personal relationship. I turned to Greene’s book for guidance, and each chapter became a roadmap for navigating the complexities of leadership and competition.

The 48 Laws of Power unfolds as a strategic guide to human behaviour, influence, and dominance. It begins by advising that one should never outshine the master, while also being careful about placing too much trust in friends and learning instead to use enemies. Greene emphasises the need to conceal your intentions and speak less than necessary, for reputation is fragile and must be guarded with your life. He urges you to court attention at all costs and get others to do your work while you take the credit. Power comes from making others come to you, winning through actions rather than arguments, and avoiding the unhappy and unlucky whose misfortune is contagious.

Mastery of people requires keeping them dependent on you, using selective honesty to disarm them, and appealing to their self-interest when asking for help. One must often pose as a friend while working as a spy, and when dealing with adversaries, crush them totally. Strategic absence can increase respect, while unpredictability keeps others in a state of suspended terror. Greene warns against isolation and advises understanding exactly who you are dealing with, committing to no one, and playing the fool to catch a fool. When weakness appears unavoidable, Greene suggests using the surrender tactic to convert it into power. Concentrating your forces, playing the perfect courtier, and continually re-creating yourself sharpen your influence. It is essential to keep your hands clean, manipu­lating belief to create cult-like followings and entering every action with boldness. One must plan to the end, make accomplishments seem effortless, control the options available to others, and play to their fantasies.

Greene teaches that every person has a “thumbscrew,” a point of leverage, and that carrying yourself like royalty compels others to treat you as such. Timing is an art, and learning to ignore what you cannot have is a form of power. The creation of compelling spectacles, outward conformity, and the stirring of troubled waters are powerful tools. He warns against accepting the free lunch and stepping into a great man’s shoes, for each carries hidden dangers. Leadership involves striking the shepherd so the sheep scatter, working on the hearts and minds of others, and using the mirror effect to disarm and infuriate. Even though people demand change, Greene advises that reform must never be too sudden. He reminds us never to appear too perfect and to recognise the moment to stop when victory has been reached. Finally, he concludes that ultimate power lies in formlessness — the ability to adapt, shift, and transform like water, making oneself impossible to grasp or oppose effectively.

Our everyday language is filled with proverbs and idioms that encapsulate strategic wisdom. Consider the adage, "Don’t put all your eggs in one basket." This simple phrase teaches the value of diversification, a key principle in risk management. Another classic saying, "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush," speaks to the importance of making careful, informed decisions and not chasing after unattainable ideals at the expense of what’s already within reach. Similarly, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" reminds us that strategic success requires patience and persistence. Even the most ambitious goals must be pursued one small step at a time. This mindset is essential in strategic thinking, where every decision, no matter how small, contributes to a greater goal.

Becoming a strategist is not about having an innate gift for decision-making or leadership; it is about a mindset and a set of practices that anyone can develop. It involves the ability to observe, analyze, and make decisions with foresight, based on a deep understanding of your environment and goals. Whether you are navigating a political campaign, managing a business, or leading a healthcare initiative, strategic thinking is the key to success. As you embark on your journey to becoming a strategist, remember that this is a lifelong process. Stay curious, read extensively, reflect on past experiences, and most importantly, embrace the challenges that come with strategic thinking. By doing so, you will transform yourself into a leader who not only survives but thrives, overcoming obstacles and creating a lasting impact in your field. The world needs more strategists, people who think critically, act boldly, and lead with vision. Will you answer the call?

About the Author

Dr Azeez Adebamgbola ADEOYE received his elementary and secondary education in Lagos, Nigeria. His tertiary education began at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, where he studied Economics and Mathematics. He later proceeded to Nigeria’s premier institution, the University of Ibadan, where he earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Library, Archival and Information Science.

During his undergraduate years, Dr Adeoye demonstrated a remarkable balance of academic excellence, social engagement, spiritual growth, and leadership. He served in several student leadership roles, including Public Relations Officer of his departmental association, Student Representative of Sultan Bello Hall, Secretary of the Faculty Presidential Consultative Forum, and later President of his departmental association, among other positions.

From his Master’s through his Doctoral programmes, Dr Adeoye continued to develop strong leadership and mentoring capacities. He has guided numerous emerging leaders and has served as staff adviser to several student associations, including the Library and Information Science Students’ Association (LISSA), Lead City University (2017–2023), the Poise Club, the Readers’ Club, and the Student Vanguard (2023–date).

Dr Adeoye is an academic of excellence, a librarian by passion, a mentor by divine calling, and an entrepreneur in development. He is a rising scholar with numerous publications in local, national, and international outlets. He is an award-winning librarian, a beneficiary of TETFund research grants, and the CEO of Eduwise Consultancy. He is a columnist for Information Matters and ThisDay newspaper, and he manages a personal blog, WizLibrarian. Known by his pen name Wizard Librarian.