On July 20, the world celebrated World Chess Day. A timely reminder that in both chess and leadership, success rarely comes from quick moves but from calculated and visionary play. Inspired by the game of chess, I’ve found striking parallels between the discipline it demands and the mindset required to thrive as an executive woman in today’s complex business landscape.
In a world that often rewards speed over strategy and noise over nuance, executive women face relentless pressure to perform, produce, and prove their worth in every moment. But what if real power lies not in playing fast but in playing smart? What if, like in chess, the leaders who truly win are those who learn to think ten moves ahead?
“Playing the long game” is more than a strategy; it’s a leadership philosophy. One that prioritizes purpose over pressure. For women navigating boardrooms and businesses and breaking barriers, it means resisting the temptation to chase every title or seek constant validation. Instead, it calls for intentionality, emotional discipline, and the courage to choose legacy over likes.
At its core, playing the long game is about aligning daily actions with a larger vision, even when results are delayed. It’s about building a body of work that reflects depth, not just direction. For women in leadership, it’s the refusal to shrink your purpose to fit into someone else’s timeline or expectations.
This kind of leadership isn’t reactive; it’s reflective. It’s not about proving yourself in the moment but positioning yourself for long-term influence. It means making choices based on where you’re going, not just where you are.
The cost of chasing quick wins
Many executive women unintentionally sacrifice long-term alignment for short-term achievement. The allure of prestigious roles, high-visibility projects, or fast promotions can distract from one’s true calling. In trying to do more, we sometimes drift further from what really matters.
Another trap is leading for validation rather than conviction. When decisions are made to gain applause or approval, rather than to serve a meaningful goal, the result is often burnout and disconnection. And in the rush to succeed, we often neglect the relationships, systems, and self-care routines that sustain us for the long haul.
In my work coaching executive women, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to pause before saying yes. One client was offered a role with significant visibility but little authority. This position would have boosted her public profile but weakened her long-term positioning.
Instead of jumping in, we mapped out her long-term goals. She focused on deepening her expertise and negotiating a role with real strategic impact. A year later, she landed a board seat, an opportunity she would have missed had she gone for the quick win. Her story is a powerful reminder that long-term strategy isn’t slow; it is smart.
How to stay motivated when the results are slow
There will be seasons where you’re planting seeds, showing up consistently, and putting in the work, but seeing little visible return. Much like in chess, where early moves may appear quiet or unremarkable, these are the moments where the foundation for winning is being laid. Leadership is forged not in the flashy plays, but in the calm, deliberate positioning that sets you up for long-term advantage.
Progress may feel invisible, but it is never wasted. The key is to anchor your identity not in what you produce today, but in who you’re becoming with every move you make. Document your growth. Reflect often. Surround yourself with people who see your vision even on days when you can’t. Mastery, like chess, is built in the silent, strategic spaces long before the checkmate is visible.
To lead well over time, executive women must develop emotional intelligence. EQ is what enables you to play chess, not checkers. It’s the difference between reacting and responding, leading with empathy instead of ego, and influencing with integrity.
Emotionally intelligent leaders manage stress, navigate conflict, and build trust with grace. These skills aren’t flashy, but they are foundational. Over time, they become your most significant assets in sustaining influence and inspiring loyalty.
4 ways to build systems that support strategic leadership
Playing the long game isn’t just about mindset; it’s about systems. Executive women can set themselves up for sustained success by implementing the following practices:
1. Regular reflection: Schedule monthly or quarterly time to assess your alignment with long-term goals.
2. Decision filters: Ask value-based questions before accepting new opportunities. (“Does this move me closer to my purpose and desired outcomes?”)
3. Mentorship circles: Surround yourself with wise, trusted advisors who challenge your thinking and hold your vision with you.
4. Energy tracking: Pay attention to what fuels or drains you. Sustainability is a strategy.
Bola Matel-Okoh, Founder and CEO, BMO Advisory Services, and Non-Executive Director of Wema Bank PLC
