When Every Choice Costs You Something
The hardest leadership decisions aren’t between right and wrong—they’re between consequences.
Today’s post is short and to the point, but it’s worth a minute to read and note.
Most leadership advice focuses on finding the right answer. But as you move up the leadership ladder, you discover it gets harder because sometimes every available answer carries a cost. That’s because the hardest leadership decisions aren’t between right and wrong—they’re between consequences.
When that happens, use a simple filter that I use:
Start with facts: What do we know rather than suspect? What’s your confidence level?
Identify responsibility: Who or what has been entrusted to our care, and what obligations govern this decision?
Then project the decision forward: Could you explain it publicly five years from now, after every fact has emerged? Would you be proud of your decision?
And don’t forget you can’t always wait until you know 100% of the information. Most experts agree that once you have about 75% of the information, it’s time to act.
Ultimately, leadership isn’t always about finding a painless door because sometimes, none exists.
The real question is: Which consequence are you willing to own?
Phil Cooke, PhD. has been called “one of the most innovative communicators of our generation.” As a media producer, writer, speaker, and consultant, his client list includes major film studios and TV networks as well as major Christian organizations like Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, and others. He’s also coached and consulted with many of the most influential churches and nonprofit organizations in the world, helping them use media to tell their story. You can hear his podcast here.
