Can Just Anyone Do Strategy?

Being in leadership usually means you have to get strategic about your mission. But what if you don’t think you were “built” for strategy? It’s possible that you even avoid it and just focus on the day-to-day of what needs to be done right here, right now.

What if I told you that’s a part of strategy, too? All of us are wired for different aspects of being strategic and when we put it together strategy can be even better! 

Based on our preferences or our “style” we will tend to naturally be drawn toward different aspects of strategy. Let me explain using four styles of communicating based on the Myers Briggs Type Personalities. 

Problem Solver

Focuses strategy on the results needed and what must happen to achieve those results. The problem solver naturally sifts through the details and identifies problems that create inefficiencies that derail mission. Quickly seeing problems, they take strategic action to solve them.

Compassionate Connector

Focuses strategy on what will be done and by who. The compassionate connector naturally notices what people need. Whether it's the target audience for your ministry or the team that is getting the work done, compassionate connectors are making plans for connecting people to resources they need.

Strategic Thinker

Focuses strategy on future possibilities and long term goals. The strategic thinker naturally visualizes the potential future that could be if the mission is achieved. They may not have every step mapped out, but they put the “guardrails” on their ideal future with concepts, principles and visions so they can see what lines up and what doesn’t.

Bridge Builder

Focuses strategy on the potential impact it can have on people and goals. The bridge builder naturally brings people together to rally around and be inspired by the mission. They see interconnections between goals, people, teams and ministry partners outside the organization. Then, they work to strategically link it all together. 

Imagine engaging each of these lenses for creating a conceptual and visionary strategy that brings people together, identifying the resources to meet needs and designing the steps, plans and processes that make strategy happen.  If you don’t feel strategic, you are not alone. She shares the value of finding people who you think are strategic and draw from their perspective.

Next Steps: 

1. Tune into the interview with Jennifer Fuller on Side by Side Podcast as she talks about  the kingdom impact of combining prayer, strategy and purpose. 
2. For more on the different communication styles, download a quick reference guide.
3. Comment below, what part of strategy energizes you?