Master Strategic Thinking for Career Success and Professional Growth

By: Joanna M. Perez Doble, Project Manager at Strategic Minds

Strategic thinking has completely transformed my career and professional outlook. I must start by saying that I am not the same person I was a year and a half ago. When I decided to change my professional career path—which had been consistent for the past seven years within the nonprofit and business development industry—I was looking to shake things up.

At that moment, I decided to approach someone I admired professionally and who I knew had the drive to grow her business, which had just turned a year and a half old. “Without change, there is no growth,” I heard from many people. Stepping out of my comfort zone became both my personal and professional goal. Although my comfort zone had often been a source of security, I knew I needed to push beyond it to grow.

Joining Strategic Minds

On December 17, 2012, I became part of the Strategic Minds team, a company founded by Hebé Lugo. From that moment, my training in strategic thinking began—one that would impact both our company’s results and the businesses of our clients.

This position came with serious responsibilities and, more importantly, a change in mindset. It’s common to be prepared to act tactically. However, thinking strategically requires a different approach. It means focusing on the outcome you want to achieve and using critical analysis to reach conclusions.

The Value of Strategic Thinking

Critical analysis is central to what we do when developing growth strategies for our clients. In fact, it requires practice and discipline. A strategic mind adds value by:

• Recommending solutions based on research.
• Defining measurement metrics.
• Developing clear organizational goals.
• Planning carefully before taking action.

As Hebé often says: “Measure twice, cut once.” This mindset ensures that our strategies are precise and effective.

Our work is not just about strategy—it’s about delivering real results. The true confirmation that we are adding value comes when our clients enjoy thinking with us. When they see tangible improvements and measurable success, we know we’ve made an impact.

After all, that is the essence of being a strategic mind, isn’t it?