Flexibility alone is not a great strategy, but the lack of it can ruin one.
During storms, trees with good root systems bend so they don't topple over. The same flexibility applies to humans. Bend, but don't break.
The game of chess is an excellent model of flexibility with strategy. Far too often, we set a plan, create Gantt charts, micromanage timelines, and doggedly pursue the objectives. However, in life and business, things rarely work out on a neat and tidy trouble-free timeline. Thus, just as in chess we have a goal and strategy. As the game develops we need to be flexible in our approach to achieve our goal while adapting to the changes that inevitably develop. The more creative, and nimble player will always win the game by recognizing the changes on the board.
Rigidity can be a significant liability in many contexts; business, personal life, or other. Don't let a lack of flexibility 'ruin' anything. Become behaviourally flexible and adjust your thoughts and actions to navigate unforeseen challenges and take advantage of unexpected opportunities.
Always be flexible how you do things but be hard and consistent with your goals.
Totally get the value of flexibility, but could too much of it lead to a lack of focus or direction? How do we find that sweet spot between adaptability and consistency? -Your support in following my page is greatly appreciated.
Too much flexibility and it's impossible to stay focused on any one thing long enough to find success. Too much structure and you'll never be able to adapt to the market and consumer feedback. How do you strike the balance?
Good insight, James. Flexibility is often touted as the ultimate virtue, but you make a fantastic point—it’s not an end goal in itself, but a critical tool that can make or break a strategy. The balance between being too rigid and being too loose is incredibly difficult to maintain, and it’s one of the hallmarks of effective leaders and strategists.
Adam Landrum
2w
Margin and flexibility are not the end. They are the means to living the life you want. If you don’t know what you want, flexibility is not going to help you much. You’re just going to be bored.
Flexibility is crucial in any strategy. Without it, you risk being unprepared for unexpected changes and missing out on new opportunities. Being adaptable allows you to pivot when necessary and stay competitive in a constantly evolving market. It’s not just about having a plan, but also being willing to adjust it when circumstances change. James Clear
I'm a Chairman, Advisor and Coach who helps ambitious HealthTech CEOs, Founders, and Executives unlock outsized growth for themselves, their teams, and their businesses.
2wFlexibility without direction is chaos camouflaged as strategy.