Frustration, fear, and stagnation are the result of not making decisions. How many times have you heard, “My boss can’t make a decision.” But, leaders who make rash decisions lose credibility.
Success depends on decisions that drive useful behaviors.
5 causes of bad decisions:
- Over-optimism. Prepare for the worst, not the best.
- Isolation.
- Ignorance.
- Personal agendas.
- Emotion: Short-term perspectives tend toward emotion; long-term toward thinking.
5 Power Tips for Powerful Decisions:
#1 Buy-in:
It doesn’t matter how decisive you are, if your team isn’t with you.
The power of decisions is multiplied by the number of people who buy-in. Foot-dragging, second-guessing, and sabotage weaken decisions.
Forget about coercion; think buy-in.
If you want them engaged after the decision, engage them in the decision-making process. Engaging others isn’t consensus decision-making. Make people feel heard and they’re more likely to embrace your decision, even if they disagree.
Get buy-in from key players before going public.
#2. Input not consensus:
Engage people in gathering data, offering perspectives, and making suggestions, but make your own decisions. Ask things like:
- What matters?
- What options are available?
- What could go wrong?
- Who might have experience in this area?
- How do mission, vision, and values inform this decision?
When seeking input, relieve pressure by using the impersonal plural. What option(s) are available?
Avoid asking, “What would you do?”
#3. 10-10-10
Expand perspective on decisions by asking:
- In 10 minutes, how will we feel about this decision?
- In 10 months?
- In 10 years?
Imagine you’ve made the decision. Use 10-10-10.
(From the book: 10-10-10, by Suzy Welch.)
#4. Sleep on it:
Make the decision and go to bed. Don’t go to sleep mulling over options. Imagine the decision is made.
Go public only after sleeping on it.
#5. Flag-pole it:
Test decisions by running them up the flagpole with coaches, confidants, or outsiders. “I intend to….” What opportunities, obstacles, or strategies arise?
What causes bad decisions?
What decision-making tips help leaders make good decisions?