The Big 5 of Strategy – 5 Core Capabilities

The 5 main areas of strategy are:

  1. Grasp the Present
    See reality as it is. Understand complexity, notice early signals, and map what is really happening in the environment.

  2. Shape the Future
    Envision what’s next. Define direction, make bold choices, and design a compelling path forward.

  3. Move the System
    Mobilize people and structures. Turn ideas into momentum by influencing without relying only on hierarchy.

  4. Deliver the Results
    Execute with focus. Turn plans into outcomes through action planning, resource choices, and steady follow-through.

  5. Adapt to Change
    Stay resilient and flexible. Learn from disruption, adjust quickly, and respond constructively to surprises.

Together, these five competencies define what it means to “be strategic” in practice.