Two Ranks Ahead

"One of the habits inculcated into [German] soldiers while training was for them 'to think two ranks ahead', that is to assume that the officers immediately above them had been removed, leaving them to work out how to respond now that orders were no longer coming down the line." - Michael Lynch

There are at least two other variations of this theme I can think of.

At work, most supervisors are thrilled by the ability for employees to work independently, with little direction. Part of that independence is an instinct for understanding not just what they do, but why it is how it is. Another sign is talking in terms of solutions rather than problems. Independent employees ask for resources first, and answers second... they would rather find the answer than be fed it. They think as if they own the business.

Another is "know your audience." Thinking in terms of the needs of the audience makes all the difference. It keeps us from delivering prime rib to vegetarians, a sports car to a toddler, an overly technical presentation to people with only high-level knowledge and interest, or humor that's ill-received.