How to Think Like a Military General

The covert operative’s guide on understanding the mind, logic, perceptions and thought process of and how to think like a military general – to be a better operator, leader and overall individual.

A military general’s mindset involves thinking beyond oneself, focusing on strategic considerations, bearing the weight of decision-making, and embodying the highest levels of leadership and stewardship.

A general is distinguished from that of his subordinates primarily by the breadth and depth of responsibility, as well as the strategic focus required by the role. As a military general, perception of the world around you is critical, and it is often quite different from that of a civilian.

The world is viewed in terms of threats and opportunities, strategic landscapes, and resources. Every detail, from the political climate of a region to the geography of a battlefield, is considered and evaluated for its strategic implications.

      Strategic vs. Tactical Thinking

A general must focus on the big picture, considering not just the immediate battlefield, but also the broader strategic landscape. They must think about long-term implications, political considerations, and the overall war effort. Subordinates, on the other hand, may focus more on tactical execution and immediate tasks at hand.