Preface: “Strategy is the hard work of choosing what to do today to improve our tomorrow.” ― This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans
Book Report: This is Strategy by Seth Godin
Introduction
Seth Godin is a well-known writer and thinker on marketing, leadership, and innovation. In his book This is Strategy: Make Better Plans, Godin explains how people and organizations can make smarter choices that lead to long-term success.
The book isn’t about complicated charts or formulas. Instead, it’s about changing how we think about planning, taking action, and growing in a world that is always changing. Godin’s main message is that success doesn’t come from working harder or faster. It comes from working smarter, asking better questions, and being willing to face discomfort.
The Problem with Default Thinking
Godin begins by pointing out a common problem: many people rush from task to task without making real progress. This leads to stress and burnout. The issue, he says, is that people often know what they want, but they don’t have a real strategy to get there.
Repeating the same actions over and over won’t work if the world has changed. Old methods may feel safe, but sticking to them is a trap. Strategy requires adapting to new realities.
Character as the Foundation of Strategy
One of Godin’s strongest points is the importance of character. He defines character as choosing your values over your instincts. In other words, strategy works best when it’s guided by values, even when those choices are hard.
For example, a strong leader doesn’t avoid tough conversations. They face them because those talks build trust and a stronger team. Godin believes that growth often comes from discomfort. Instead of running from it, he tells readers to seek it out because it helps us grow faster.
Learning Myths and Growth
Godin also challenges the popular idea of “learning styles.” He says people don’t really learn better in just one style—they simply have preferences that make them feel comfortable. Real growth comes when we move out of our comfort zones and try new ways to learn.
This lesson connects to strategy. Businesses can’t just stick to what’s familiar. A company that has always used one kind of marketing might need to explore new platforms or creative methods to grow.
Procrastination and Discomfort
Godin takes another common issue—procrastination—and reframes it. He argues that procrastination usually isn’t laziness. Instead, it’s avoiding the uncomfortable feelings tied to the task. Good strategists recognize this and face the discomfort rather than delay.
He quotes Ted Lasso: “If you’re comfortable, you’re doin’ it wrong.”
Tactics vs. Strategy
A key message in the book is the difference between tactics and strategy.
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- Tactics are small daily actions.
- Strategy is the bigger picture—the “why” behind what you’re doing.
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Without strategy, tactics are just busywork. Godin says many companies get caught up in tactics like running ads or chasing sales without answering bigger questions like:
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- Why are we doing this?
- Where are we going?
- Who are we serving?
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Examples from the Book
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- Marketing a Product – Strategy is not about pushing out more ads. It’s about building trust and connection with customers. A loyal customer base is worth more than short-term sales.
- Career Development – Strategy in your career may mean saying “no” to an easy job in order to grow skills in a harder one. Godin says we should look at our careers as a purposeful journey, not just a series of jobs.
- Community Building – Strategy in a community is not about control. It’s about creating shared values and giving people a chance to be part of something bigger.
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Practical Applications
Godin gives several ways to put his ideas into practice:
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- Set Clear Values – Decide what matters most to you before making a plan.
- Seek Discomfort – Choose the option that helps you grow, even if it’s harder.
- Separate Tactics from Strategy – Ask yourself if your daily actions connect to your bigger plan.
- Test and Adapt – Strategies must change as situations change.
- Think Long-Term – Focus on sustainability and lasting impact, not just quick wins.
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Key Lessons for Everyone
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- Growth Requires Change – Old methods won’t work forever.
- Character Matters – Decisions guided by values build trust.
- Comfort Can Hold You Back – Real growth happens in discomfort.
- Keep It Simple – Strategy doesn’t need to be complicated, just clear.
- Strategy Is for All – It’s not only for CEOs; anyone can use it in life or work.
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Conclusion
Seth Godin’s This is Strategy is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about nonstop hustle. It’s about smart, values-based strategies that help us grow and make an impact.
For leaders, it’s a call to focus on long-term vision and culture instead of quick wins. For individuals, it’s encouragement to view life and career choices as part of a bigger picture.
In today’s world, where change is constant and distractions are everywhere, Godin’s advice is clear: strategy is more than a plan—it’s a way of living and leading.