How to Embrace Multiple Perspectives in Strategic Thinking

A while back, I was walking on a quiet trail through the woods. It was a crisp autumn day, and the fall colors were so vibrant and breathtaking.

I took my headphones off to truly observe my surroundings—the crunch of leaves beneath my feet, the deep, golden hues that painted the landscape—the works.

Then all of a sudden, I noticed that, above me, nature had arranged branches into an arch that rivaled those meticulously crafted for wedding ceremonies. Captivated, I took a photo, walked on, then turned back for another shot from a different angle.

As I compared these photos, something struck me. The same forest, the same arch, the same trees, and yet the pathway looked remarkably different.

From one perspective, the forest appeared dense, predominantly brown and green. From another, it looked sparser, more golden, with flecks of red sprinkled throughout.

What changed was my perspective.

This simple observation led me to a profound realization about strategic thinking in business.

How often do we analyze our business from only one perspective – our own?

While your viewpoint is undoubtedly valuable and backed by evidence, are you taking the time to seek out and truly listen to other perspectives?

Every member of your team, every colleague, brings their own unique angle to the table. They have their own data, experiences, and insights that shape their viewpoint.

While other people’s perspectives might differ from yours, it doesn’t mean they’re wrong. They’ve simply gathered their data from a different angle.

This diversity of thought is not a hindrance – it’s a strategic advantage waiting to be leveraged.

To truly think strategically and make impactful decisions for your team or business, try these approaches:

1. Actively Seek Diverse Opinions: Reach out to team members, colleagues, and even stakeholders from different departments or backgrounds.
2. Practice Deep Listening: When others share their perspectives, listen intently. Try to understand not just what they’re saying but why they see things that way.
3. Encourage Dissenting Views: Create an environment where people feel safe to disagree and offer alternative viewpoints.
4. Play Devil’s Advocate: Challenge your own assumptions by deliberately considering opposing viewpoints.
5. Use Structured Techniques: Employ methods like SWOT analysis or Six Thinking Hats to systematically explore different perspectives.
6. Delay Judgment: Resist the urge to immediately evaluate ideas as ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Instead, collect a range of perspectives before drawing conclusions.

Making decisions in a vacuum limits your strategic potential.  

Try to see the forest through the trees.

By embracing multiple perspectives to see the big picture, you’re not just making a decision – you’re crafting a comprehensive strategy that accounts for various angles, potential challenges, and hidden opportunities.

This approach doesn’t just lead to better decisions; it fosters a culture of inclusion, innovation, and collective wisdom within your team.

As you tackle your next big decision or strategic planning session, challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone. Seek out those diverse perspectives, even – especially – when they challenge your own.

Remember the lesson from the forest: The most breathtaking view might just be from an angle you haven’t considered yet.