The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking: Leading Your Organization into the Future Author: Michael D. Watkins

The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking by Michael D. Watkins is a compelling guide for leaders navigating complex, fast-changing environments. Known for his bestselling book The First 90 Days, Watkins now turns his expertise to the heart of organizational success: strategic foresight and execution.

Drawing from research, case studies, and executive coaching experience, Watkins outlines six core disciplines that enable leaders to anticipate change, shape vision, and mobilize teams. These disciplines go beyond traditional planning—they cultivate a mindset of agility, clarity, and systems-level insight that’s essential in today’s volatile business landscape.

Key takeaways include:

How to diagnose challenges and spot emerging trends

Cultivating long-range thinking without losing focus on execution

Structuring organizations for adaptability and resilience

Enabling collaborative decision-making and strategic alignment

Encouraging continuous learning and innovation across teams

Leading with emotional intelligence and strategic humility

Ideal for:

Executives and senior managers shaping organizational strategy

MBA students and leadership development programs

Consultants and coaches guiding business transformation

Readers of corporate strategy, management theory, and organizational psychology

This book equips readers not just to plan for the future—but to lead their organizations toward it. With actionable frameworks and thought-provoking insights, The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking is an indispensable resource for visionaries and changemakers alike.