Check. Your move.

What do these lines, letters, and numbers mean to you?

1. e4 e5
2. Nf3 d6
3. d4 Bg4
4. d4xe5 Bxf3
5. Qxf3 d6xe5
6. Bc4 Nf6
7. Qb3 Qe7

It's "Chess" notation.  Specifically, "Algebraic notation is a method for recording and describing the moves in a game of chess" (as explained here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algebraic_notation_(chess)).

One of the most important elements of successful Strategy Execution is also core to the game of chess.  Yet, perhaps because it's so obvious, it's rarely talked about.  That element?  The need to anticipate.

So obvious, so important.  Strategy Execution requires leaders to think ahead, to anticipate the challenges that those impacted by the change may throw into the path.  These hurdles will take many forms.  Some people will find "factual" reasons why the new approach is wrong.  Others will take longer to complete tasks than planned.  Some will "demonstrate" how the new strategy doesn't work; Others will "hunker down," and just not follow through until forced.  Resistant people will find very creative ways to gum up the works - sometimes without even realizing they're doing it!

The superb chess player is always looking steps ahead, anticipating his opponents next move, then the next, and the next.  The player looks at many alternatives, scenarios, and options, trying to assure that whatever the opponent does, he has a move prepared to counter.  (For an interesting look at today's best, and perhaps one of the best the world has ever seen, check out http://ti.me/xwCsvq, a Time magazine article about Magnus Carlsen).

Magnus Carlsen (photo courtesy Time.com)

It is the job of leaders to know - from the start - that these challenges will show up, and to think through - regularly, throughout the process - how those challenges will be addressed.

One of the advantages of anticipating these threats early and often is that it buys time. It is much easier to think through implications and develop appropriate responses to a challenge well in advance than it is when the problem occurs suddenly, unexpectedly, at a very sensitive moment.

There are many ways to identify and mitigate "Threats to Success."  Some work better than others.  Without doubt, they all work better when coupled with adequate thinking time.

Think ahead.  Anticipate.

34.  Qh8#

Checkmate.