Insight is critical for strategy; it comes from immersing yourself in the nature of the problem and may arise unexpectedly.

Many tacticians in branding are now asking deeper questions about their work, realizing that understanding the strategy behind their actions is crucial before executing any tasks.

The shift from traditional communication methods to modern digital tools has made it harder to take time for deep thinking, especially for CEOs who face constant demands. I would take two weeks a year for think weeks, where I would disconnect from email and focus on reading papers and writing strategy memos for Microsoft.

I learned that during strategic inflection points, it's crucial to commit fully to a single direction rather than trying to maintain multiple options.

I find it essential to take time for reading and reflection, which helps maintain creativity and allows for deeper thinking.

Meditation and disconnecting from constant digital stimulation are increasingly important for mental well-being in today's fast-paced world.

It's important to recognize that strategy is not mysterious; it's about practical problem-solving and taking actionable steps.

Understanding history and the stories behind successful strategies can provide valuable insights for current strategic thinking.

It's important to seek out inspiring advice that encourages building and creating, rather than getting bogged down in corporate strategies that may not resonate with your goals.