In this post, we’ll explain all you need to know about strategy and tactics, defining exactly what they are, the differences between them, how we can leverage both to optimise success in achieving our goals and more.
What Is Strategy?
Strategy is derived from the Greek word “strategos” which means “general.” It refers to one’s specific long-term goal. It acts as a compass that provides direction.
What Is Tactics?
Tactics is derived from the Greek word “taktos” which means “arrange.” It refers to the specific short-term actions one needs to take in order to achieve one’s goal. It acts as a roadmap that provides the steps.
The Differences Between Strategy & Tactics
Strategy determines where you want to go. Tactics determine how you’ll get there.
Strategy is required to determine the destination of your goal. Tactics are required to determine the specific actions you’ll need to reach it.
For example, your strategy might be to lose weight. Thus, your tactics might be to eat more fruit and vegetables and increase your cardio.
Strategy Versus Tactics Table Summary
Below is a table summarising the differences between both.
| Strategy | Tactics |
|---|---|
| Where | How |
| Destination | Actions |
| Long-Term | Short-Term |
| Compass | Roadmap |
| Ends | Means |
| Macro | Micro |
| Future-Focused | Present-Focused |
| Proactive | Reactive |
How To Leverage Strategy Versus Tactics
Success in anything requires both strategy and tactics ― they complement eachother.
If we have strategy without tactics, we will know what our goal is but not how to get there. If we have tactics without strategy, we will know what to do but not where we are going.
Thus, the key to leveraging them is to incorporate both into our personal and professional goals. We must think strategically and act tactically.
Summary (TL;DR)
Strategy refers to a specific desired outcome and where we are going. Tactics refers to the specific actions and how we are going to get there.
The key to leveraging them is to clearly define and then incorporate both into our personal and professional goals.
