The Dayu-Style Strategic Thinking Model (DSTM): An Eastern Embodied Framework for Dynamic Decision-Making

In an era of heightened uncertainty and rapidly evolving competitive rules, traditional strategy theories face challenges in both theoretical advancement and practical applicability. Western dynamic competition frameworks—such as dynamic capabilities, hypercompetition, and action–response models—offer analytical tools for resource allocation, process reconfiguration, and action sequencing, yet remain limited in addressing strategic sensing, nonlinear pattern recognition, and embodied decision-making. This study proposes the Dayu-style Strategic Thinking Model (DSTM), which integrates Eastern strategic philosophy—particularly principles from The Art of War (“Know the enemy and know yourself,” “Leverage advantages,” and “Act in accordance with the situation”)—with embodied perception training from Tai Chi practice and Eastern problem-solving logic. The model constructs a closed-loop decision system encompassing intelligence, self-protection, total victory, action, and feedback. Structured as a Three-Ring Model (inner ring: The Art of War; middle ring: Tai Chi practice; outer ring: Eastern problem-solving logic) and operationalized through the Gui–Zha Decision Matrix, the DSTM enables the complementary interplay between strategic sensing (Gui) and rhythmic orchestration (Zha). The research establishes the model’s theoretical foundations and operational mechanisms, and explores its potential for human-centered and embodied strategic thinking, offering organizations a robust framework for navigating volatile and uncertain environments.Note: This English version of the Dayu-style Strategic Thinking Model (DSTM) is translated and revised based on the original Chinese version (DOI: https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/r5uv2_v1). Minor nuances may differ; readers may consult the Chinese version when needed.