The idea
Positioning is selective preparation for the transitions that matter, not an attempt to stay ready for every future. It can be worth accepting a cost in the current state to avoid being badly placed after an important change. As information arrives, preparation should give way to commitment.
Worked example · illustrative
Preparing an event before the forecast settles
Situation. You are arranging a small outdoor gathering. The forecast is uncertain, and deciding everything on the morning of the event would leave too little preparation time. An indoor room is available but needs organizing.
The tempting conclusion. Either commit to outdoors now or postpone all preparation until the weather is clear.
What changes the view. Some work is useful in either setting: choosing portable food, confirming attendance, and arranging movable seating. Clearing the indoor room costs effort now but protects against a consequential change in weather. Preparing elaborate decorations for both settings would add little protection for its cost.
What this supports. Do the shared preparation and keep a workable rain plan. Set a decision time before guests travel, then commit to one location when the forecast is useful enough. Positioning is active preparation for important possibilities; continuing to prepare both venues after choosing would waste effort.
Useful when
Watch for
Preparing for too many futures can spread resources too thin. Reassess the position as information arrives, and commit when preparation no longer justifies its cost.
Where this came from
Football