The Imperfectionists: Strategic Mindsets for Uncertain Times

In The Imperfectionists, Charles Conn and Robert McLean argue that traditional strategic planning no longer works in a world defined by volatility, disruption, and constant change. Markets are evolving too rapidly for static long-term plans, and waiting for stability is no longer a viable option. Many organizations either freeze in uncertainty or make impulsive, high-risk decisions. This book presents a smarter alternative.

As a follow-up to Bulletproof Problem Solving, the authors introduce a dynamic framework built around six reinforcing strategic mindsets: curiosity, dragonfly eye, occurrent behavior, collective wisdom, imperfectionism, and show and tell. Drawing from a decade of research and dozens of case studies, they demonstrate how leaders can navigate ambiguity through experimentation, adaptable thinking, and rapid learning.