Tag Archives: second-order effects

First moves feel decisive. Second-order effects decide outcomes.Val Sklarov’s Strategic Thinking perspective treats strategy as the discipline of anticipating what happens after the obvious happens, where most failures originate—not from the initial action, but from its consequences. 1. First-Order Thinking Is Incomplete by Default Immediate effects are the easiest to …

Most decisions look correct at first glance.They fail because of what happens next.Val Sklarov’s Strategic Thinking perspective treats strategy as the discipline of anticipating reactions, feedback loops, and unintended consequences before committing to action. 1. First-Order Thinking Is Easy—and Dangerous First-order effects are visible and comforting. Val Sklarov contrasts: First-order: …