"Proper scoping about our timing and our expectations by learning from previous examples is one of the best things that we can do to ensure that we're more likely to succeed at the business elements of the law. ” - Dorie Clark

What was Dorie Clark's journey to becoming a prolific author?

What obstacles complicate long-term strategic thinking?

What are the real emotional and cultural reasons behind “busy” obsession?

What is “white space” and why is it necessary for strategic thinking?

How can those with limited discretion of time create more “white space” in their lives?

Why should we optimize for meaning and impact over money?

How can thinking in waves make you an expert in any field?

Courage, Resilience, Curiosity
To create a meaningful life — both professionally and personally — we need to strategically plan for the future. Yet so many lose sight of the end goal, letting over-scheduled calendars and busy work cloud our vision. To realign with lasting success means reframing priorities and making unscheduled time a non-negotiable. Persistence and effort are necessary to consistently make the small changes that have big impact.

Dorie Clark is a professor at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and Columbia Business School, consultant, and presidential campaign keynote speaker who has been named a Top 50 Business Thinker in the world by Thinkers50. The Wall Street Journal best-selling author of "The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World" offers solutions so that we can think critically about long-term planning and goal setting.
 
In this episode, we look at the common blocks of long-term strategic thinking and how to overcome them. Dorie reframes busyness as a form of avoidance and shares what we should be doing instead. Plus, explore the waves that can help anyone become an expert in their field.
An Expert in Any Field
As the lifecycle of a goal progresses, actions that once had traction no longer move us forward. Despite sustained effort, we are left feeling stuck. The solution? Pause, identify your wave, and shift accordingly.
 
Dorie identifies key waves that must be followed in succession to become an expert. The first wave is learning. An attorney new to a firm gets oriented with the major players and operations. In the creating wave, a lawyer will participate, raise their hand, and add value. The connecting phase ensures that the value added is seen by the right leaders. To make partner, principals need to know their name. Once a contributor enjoys a level of prestige and respect — obtained the role of General Counsel or Partner — they have entered the reaping wave. While extremely satisfying, it is critical to disrupt yourself and go back to the learning phase. This time with less risk and more enjoyment. 
Key takeaways:

Busy or avoiding? Slow down and refocus on what will move the needle. Use the extra time to lean into the uncomfortable.

Less is more. Allow for unstructured time to give the flexibility necessary to deal with whatever may come up. This allows clarity of mind to think strategically.

Think long-term. Ride out the short-term losses and setbacks. Make choices that get you closer to the end goal.

Links and Resources

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The Long Game