How do organizations make time for strategy in a world of risk? In this episode Jonathan and DJ talk about the importance of building “strategic habits” in work and life, building on their years of public service and non-profit leadership. Jonathan introduces listeners to the concept of the “three-day effect,” an idea developed by the psychologist David Strayer and popularized by the writer Florence Williams, about how extended time in outdoors and away from your devices can help individuals to focus on their strategic goals – and come back more invigorated. Then D.J. and Jonathan talk about the nature of strategic habit for individual and organizational planning, reflecting on DJ’s combat service and over 21 years in the U.S. Army and Jonathan’s time advising leaders in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and running strategic initiatives across the Pentagon and with the White House.

Additional Reading

Robert Kabacoff, “Develop strategic thinkers throughout your organization,” Harvard Business Review, https://hbr.org/2014/02/develop-strategic-thinkers-throughout-your-organization

Stephen Bungay, “How to make the most of your company’s strategy,” Harvard Business Review, https://hbr.org/2011/01/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-companys-strategy

On how to build habits, for strategy and for life: https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2018/02/13/the-science-behind-adopting-new-habits-and-making-them-stick/#7941706143c7

On the three-day effect of being in nature and the importance of unplugging: Florence Williams, “This is your brain on nature,” National Geographic, 2016 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2016/01/call-to-wild/