Frameworks and recommended resources

Strategic planning isn't just a “box to check”—it's the foundation of your growth.

In this episode, we dive into the essential tips and techniques for effective strategic planning in 2026. We explore mental frameworks like Mind Mapping and Zettelkasten, tactical execution through purposeful meetings, and how to leverage AI as a strategic partner. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a leader, these actionable insights will help you move from incremental thinking to bold vision.

Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS, and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll.

Ready to tackle bigger problems? Go to Claude.ai/tps.

Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership.

Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics.

Cheat Sheet:

Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “One Tweak A Week” shirt.

• The one mouse feature you didn’t know you needed (until now) [00:27]
• Why most “strategic planning” feels broken — and what this episode does differently [01:44]
• Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:40]
• The most common strategy mistake smart people keep repeating [04:32]
• How great strategies often come down to just a few variables [08:47]
• Using AI to think faster — without outsourcing your brain [11:27]
• Why the best strategy insights rarely come from the boardroom [19:47]
• What leaders learn when they actually do the work themselves [23:07]
• Where human intuition still beats AI (and how to combine both) [28:07]
• Turning a solid plan into real execution that actually sticks [35:13]

Links:

• Gusto
• Claude
• Masterclass
• 25X Productivity Coaching
• Logitech MX Master 4 Ergonomic Wireless Mouse
• Scaling Up: How a Few Companies Make It…and Why the Rest Don't by Verne Harnish
• How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking by Sönke Ahrens
• Mindnode
• XMind
• The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Revised and Updated: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals
• Productivity Academy
• The Productivity Show on Youtube
• The Productivity Show Youtube Clips
• Become a member of TPS+
• Take the Productivity Quiz

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Overcast, Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!