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Why high performers aren’t always high potentials—and 10 traits that separate tactical doers from visionary leaders
In every thriving organization, there are the “aardvarks”—those diligent, industrious professionals who reliably get results. Like their animal namesakes, these employees are focused, efficient, and consistent. Aardvarks don’t spend time second-guessing; they simply get the job done. But despite their value, there’s one mistake too many leaders make: they try to turn an aardvark into an eagle.
This metaphor is more than catchy—it’s instructive. Aardvarks, remarkable as they are, were never meant to fly. Asking them to lead strategic initiatives or think with eagle-like vision doesn’t elevate performance; it sets them up for failure. Worse, it demoralizes others who witness the fallout.
Eagles are different. Strategic thinking is innate to them. It can be nurtured but not implanted. So, before you promote your next high performer into a strategic leadership role, ask yourself: are they truly equipped to soar?
Here are ten essential capabilities that define a strategic thinker—your organizational eagles:
1. Separate Strategy from Tactics
True strategic leaders focus on the “what” and delegate the “how.” They resist the urge to micromanage processes and keep their eyes on long-term goals.
2. Maintain a Global Perspective
Eagles rise above the noise. While others get stuck chasing perfection, strategic thinkers move forward when they’re 80% ready, knowing speed can be a competitive edge.
3. Overcome Obstacles
Setbacks don’t flatten them—they fuel them. These individuals display resilience and help others stay focused and motivated during turbulent times.
4. Create Order from Chaos
In moments of crisis, strategic thinkers impose calm. They manage not only their own reactions but those of the teams and systems around them.
5. Recognize Patterns and Connections
They spot trends, predict consequences, and identify both risks and rewards. Strategic leaders see the whole board—not just the next move.
6. Prioritize the Critical Few
When everything feels urgent, they stay focused. These leaders know what truly matters and aren’t afraid to challenge outdated assumptions.
7. Solve Complex Problems
Even under pressure, they cut through confusion to identify viable, innovative solutions. They’re not just fixers—they’re creators of what’s next.
8. Future-Oriented and Creative
Eagles interpret the past through a lens of opportunity and imagine credible futures. Disruption doesn’t scare them—it inspires them.
9. Respond Well to Change
When “normal” disappears, strategic thinkers adapt. They remain systematic and focused in the face of uncertainty.
10. Serve as a Sounding Board
They bring clarity, not just commands. These leaders help others uncover insights and make better decisions—not simply follow orders.
Effort Isn’t Enough—Vision Matters
High-performing workers deserve recognition and support—but not every high performer is destined for strategic leadership. The difference is in mindset, not just skill. You can’t coach someone into becoming an eagle any more than you can teach an aardvark to fly. Effort doesn’t equal elevation.
The Ultimate Test When given strategic responsibility, do they deliver? If yes, invest in them. If no, stop trying to mold them into something they’re not. Elevating the wrong people can jeopardize your future and diminish your talent pool.
Critical thinking, dispassionate analysis, and future-focused reasoning form the core of organizational success. So, keep honoring your hardworking aardvarks—but when it’s time to lead, call in the eagles.
