Strategic thinking, a process that focuses on evaluating factors to ensure long-term success, can shape how leaders set priorities over time. Here are some tips for strengthening your strategic mindset. 

1. Build awareness of the bigger picture. The ability to see beyond the day-to-day is an important strategic thinking skill. Some ways to expand your perspective include following thought leaders, subscribing to curated newsletters, and attending conferences on global trends. 
2. Ask better questions. While asking better questions may seem straightforward, it’s an often-overlooked skill. Strategic thinkers often pause to ask questions that focus on long-term implications of a decision or who’s benefiting (and who’s not) from a current approach.  
3. Explore scenarios and alternatives. Scenario planning is a practical strategic thinking example. Leaders can be better prepared for uncertainty by thinking of multiple possible futures. This skill can also help build team agility. 
4. Adopt systems thinking. Systems thinking means realizing how a decision in one area can affect others. Examples of this skill include aligning your culture with strategic priorities and detecting obstacles that could prevent cross-team collaboration. 

For more information, read “6 ways to develop and master strategic thinking skills” from the International Institute for Management Development.