When confronted with difficult situations, how do you respond? Do you focus mostly on readily attainable, short-term objectives? Do you investigate only those options that align with your long-term goals? If so, it may be time to adopt a more strategic approach. Zeroing in on what you can control, considering a wide range of options, and adopting a more open outlook may bring undiscovered options into view. If you’re constantly finding yourself between a rock and a hard place, it’s time to figure out what’s holding you back.
In this edition of Readers & Leaders, McKinsey senior partner emeritus Claudio Feser explains why using the “decision navigator” can help identify better options and improve predictions when in daunting situations. Olympic gold medalist Mark Tuitert shares how adopting a Stoic mindset and letting go of elements beyond his control transformed agonizing stagnation into an exciting Olympic win. Journalist Lawrence Ingrassia describes how applying strategic investigative skills helped him uncover a tragic cancer mystery and share his findings to benefit others. Harvard Law School professor Cass Sunstein highlights the unusual paths forged by talented unknowns—unique steps that pulled hopefuls out of mediocrity and catapulted them to superstardom. Read on to learn more about how to turn strategic thinking into opportunity.
August 9 is National Book Lovers Day, the perfect occasion for readers across the globe to curl up with a good book. If you’re looking for a stimulating read, check out this selection.
Catch up on the latest and greatest reads for the month. Explore June business bestsellers, prepared exclusively for McKinsey by Circana. Check out the full selection on McKinsey on Books.
If you'd like to propose a book or author for #McKAuthorTalks, please email us at Author_Talks@Mckinsey.com. Due to the high volume of requests, we will respond only to those being considered.
