Breaking Free from the Strategy Trap: Lessons Learned from Ryan Hays
Mike interviews Ryan Hays.
Let’s dive into an electrifying conversation I recently had with Ryan Hays, the mastermind behind the groundbreaking book “Strategists First: How to Defeat the Strategy Trap.” Strap in because we’re about to uncover the essence of strategy and why it’s the ultimate game-changer in today’s fast-paced world.
SUMMARY
First things first, let’s talk about strategy. Ryan Hays breaks it down like a true sage, emphasizing that strategists aren’t just individuals in boardrooms making decisions; they’re rebels, outsiders, and free-thinkers. They challenge the status quo, push boundaries, and refuse to settle for mediocrity. In Ryan’s words, “Strategists do things by design, not by default.” That’s a mantra worth tattooing on your brain!
So, what sets strategists apart? It’s their knack for leading time rather than merely managing it. They understand the power of deep work days, those uninterrupted chunks of time where they can tap into their creative genius and make magic happen. Ryan draws inspiration from Jim Collins, who meticulously divides his calendar into buckets, ensuring he dedicates ample time to deep work. It’s a burn-the-boats mentality, a commitment to maximizing every moment and squeezing every drop of potential.
But here’s the kicker: you don’t have to be an entrepreneur to be a strategist. Ryan dispels the myth that strategy is reserved for the C-suite elite. Nope, strategists can thrive anywhere, from corporate corridors to startup hubs. It’s all about embracing that strategist identity, living and breathing it daily.
Now, let’s talk about the power of self-awareness. Knowing yourself inside and out is vital to unleashing your strategic prowess. Whether managing your energy like Jeff Bezos or carving out deep work days like Jim Collins, it’s all about understanding what makes you tick and optimizing your workflow accordingly. As Ryan says, “The best way to spot a strategist is how they use time.” It’s about that ROI—return on time invested—and making every second count.
Ryan drops some profound wisdom on personal development, drawing parallels between strategists and constant students. Like Freud delved into human motivation, strategists are perpetually curious, always hungry for knowledge, and never resting on their laurels. That insatiable thirst for growth sets them apart, propelling them to new heights of success.
And let’s not forget about the power of community. Ryan emphasizes cultivating a movement, a tribe of like-minded individuals who share your vision and fuel your fire. It’s about surrounding yourself with fellow rebels, outsiders, and free-thinkers who challenge you to think bigger, bolder, and better.
In essence, Ryan’s book isn’t just a manifesto for innovators and entrepreneurs—it’s a blueprint for anyone looking to conquer the strategy trap and unleash their full potential. So, whether you’re a seasoned CEO or a budding startup founder, take a page from Ryan’s playbook and embrace your inner strategist. Burn those boats, lead time like a boss, and watch as the world becomes your oyster.
And that’s a wrap, folks! Huge thanks to Ryan Hays for dropping knowledge bombs left and right. If you haven’t already, grab a copy of “Strategists First” and join the movement. Until next time, keep strategizing, innovating, and crushing it like the rock stars you are!
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About Mike Fallat
Mike Fallat, aka The BookMan, is the owner of Dreamstarters Publishing and the Million Dollar Book Agency. They have helped 300+ entrepreneurs become bestselling authors. His goal is to help 1,000 entrepreneurs publish books and teach them how to use their books as a gateway to generating 7-figures.
Visit website for more information: https://www.milliondollarbookagency.com/
About Dreamstarters Publishing
Dreamstarters Publishing offers ghostwriting, cover design, and everything that is required to take an idea to a finished book (kindle, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook).
The Million Dollar Book Agency is the ultimate marketing CRM system for author-preneurs. Services include automated funnels, lead generation campaigns, book fulfillment, podcast management, press releases, virtual assistants, course development, and more.
Mike also hosts a podcast known as Million Dollar Stories and runs a membership-based site known as Million Dollar Circle. In addition to owning the book business, he invests in self storage real estate.
https://dreamstarterspublishing.com/