---
title: "Strategy and Risk in the 21st Century: Doing the Hard Thing"
description: Analogizing the complexities of space exploration, strategic leaders in the 21st century must tackle formidable challenges to drive progress and societal well-being in a world defined by uncertainty.
image: https://www.jolacu.com/hubfs/Amoprhous%20risks%20and%20bold%20approachs.jpg
---

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 Apr 23, 2024 8:21:41 AM

# Strategy and Risk in the 21st Century: Doing the Hard Thing

![Picture of Jack Cullinane](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e) [Jack Cullinane](https://www.jolacu.com/blog/author/jack-cullinane)

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I recently tuned into a thought-provoking podcast that delved into the contemplation of whether the pursuit of space exploration is justified given the monumental challenges it presents. As someone who has always harbored dreams of witnessing the transformation of society into a Star Trek-esque utopia—where war is obsolete, and technological advancements enable a life free from poverty—I've held onto the belief that such a future is not only desirable but also within the realm of possibility. However, for the first time, my optimism towards this vision wavered in the face of the seemingly insurmountable obstacles posed by the complexities of space exploration.

In grappling with the question of why undertake such daunting tasks, I was reminded of a guiding principle derived from history: the more formidable the challenge, the more profound the impact of success. In the contemporary landscape, we confront existential issues ranging from climate change to the rapidly evolving geopolitical terrain and disruptive technological and economic forces. The defining themes of our era include constant change and an increasing ambiguity surrounding risks.

The emergence of successful strategic leaders in the 21st century hinges on their willingness to tackle formidable challenges. Such leaders must reject conventional approaches, opting for a more ethical stance that considers human factors and societal well-being. They must navigate the intricacies of risk in a world defined by uncertainty, sometimes opting to confront challenges directly rather than taking a safer route.

Whether contemplating space exploration, the development of intelligent systems, or the mitigation of climate change despite economic hurdles, these endeavors play a crucial role in propelling the needle of progress forward. When faced with the prospect of a significant strategic shift, echoing the sentiment of Robert Frost, one might choose the less-traveled path, recognizing that passion is invaluable and that seemingly impossible feats are, in fact, achievable. The key lies in breaking down complex problems, making incremental progress, and unwaveringly pursuing the ultimate goal. In this way, we contribute to the enduring legacy of human achievement and progress.

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