L.J. Bourgeois III

Something happens on the way from a strategy’s creation to its execution: the unpredictable, which can leave many a carefully crafted plan in tatters. Eastern philosophy offers paths to confronting inevitable uncertainty.

Western analytical tools are important to the process of understanding industries and competitors, but true insights can be achieved with what the Buddha called beginner’s mind. In this The Tao of Strategy excerpt, the authors explore how Eastern philosophy complements Western strategy-making and offer 12 principles that can inform business leaders

an businesses learn from Eastern philosophies? Major names like Disney, Dollar General and Men’s Health have implemented principles of Ki Aikido to great success. Professor Bourgeois discusses the concept of ki and the six lessons on energy and strategy one may glean from Kōichi Tōhei’s simple, profound “Principles of Mind and Body Unification.”

Mergers and acquisitions can lead to company growth, but they’re also risky and sometimes even destroy shareholder value. Darden Professor Jay Bourgeois offers 20 questions organizations should answer before pursuing an M&A strategy.

How does a legacy luxury brand navigate the twists and turns of changing economic circumstances? There are few one-size-fits-all solutions in leadership, and evolving business contexts may require strategic pivots. Darden Professor Jay Bourgeois discusses leadership and strategy lessons that have driven Aston Martin’s success in recent decades.

To thrive in a global economy, managers need to be aware not only of linear analytics and Western economics, but also aspects of Eastern philosophy, like letting go of desire and control — perhaps unexpected lessons at a business school.