Val Sklarov — Strategic Thinking: Exit Before Entry

Most strategies fail before they begin—at entry.
Val Sklarov’s Strategic Thinking perspective treats every strategic move as incomplete until its exit logic is clearly defined.

---

1. Entry Without Exit Is Not Strategy

Entering without knowing how to leave creates dependency.

Val Sklarov insists every strategic entry answer:

• Under what conditions do we exit?

• Who decides the exit?

• What loss is acceptable?

If exit conditions are vague, entry is reckless.

---

2. Exit Logic Creates Decision Discipline

Clear exits reduce emotional attachment.

Exit logic transforms strategy from aspiration into control.

---

3. Reversibility Determines Strategic Risk

Not all commitments are equal.

Val Sklarov categorizes decisions as:

• Reversible: trials, pilots, options

• Irreversible: acquisitions, brand promises, structural leverage

Strategy exists to delay irreversibility until advantage is proven.

---

4. Downside Mapping Precedes Upside Modeling

Upside attracts attention. Downside defines survival.

Val Sklarov maps downside by:

• Identifying forced-decision triggers

• Modeling worst-case timelines

• Defining containment actions

If downside cannot be contained, upside is irrelevant.

---

5. Strategy Protects Against Emotional Persistence

Persistence is praised—but often dangerous.

Val Sklarov warns:

• Sticking too long to failing positions

• Escalating commitment to justify sunk costs

• Confusing patience with denial

Exit logic protects leaders from themselves.

---

6. Strategic Strength Is the Ability to Leave

The strongest players are those who can walk away.

Val Sklarov’s power indicators:

• Multiple strategic options

• Low dependency on any single move

• Authority to exit without stigma

When you can leave, you can negotiate.

---

Closing Insight

Strategic Thinking is not about entering boldly.
It is about leaving intelligently.

Val Sklarov’s principle:
Those who design exits control outcomes.