Most board games, like chess and Monopoly, come with a rule book, and players try to win by following these rules. The aim is to beat others, score the most points, or finish first. This idea of competition is common in sports too, where players try to be faster or score more points than others. These games are finite, which means that winning is their final destination.

In business, companies often work towards short-term goals and pleasing shareholders, trying to be the best in measurable ways. But unlike games that end, areas like business, politics, and parenting don't have a final winner and continue over time. These are the infinite games — you aim to keep playing them.

Take Lego as an example. It's a business that focuses on long-term goals instead of just short-term financial success. Lego aims to keep innovating and reaching more children every year. This long-term approach helps the business stay successful over time, benefiting both current and future generations.

But if businesses only look at short-term profits, like quarterly earnings, they might ignore important things like innovation and customer happiness. These are key for long-term success and can be more valuable than just dominating the market or making quick profits.

Many companies start with long-term thinking, but this can change with new leaders who focus more on short-term results. However, some businesses shift from short-term to long-term thinking, which can lead to a more sustainable and innovative way of working. This approach values ongoing improvement and a long-term vision more than quick wins.