By Michael Holland –
As we walk through each day, we make what seem to be minor decisions and take small actions to solve whatever problems might arise.
These decisions and actions in and of themselves are not wrong. But we should be asking ourselves if these decisions and actions are wise for us as leaders.
Being a wise leader paints a different picture than being right.
Being wise requires more discernment, more balancing of emotional intelligence, and more of a desire to seek greater impact.
At times when I find myself at that tipping point of “oh crap, that wasn’t a wise decision,” I really need to realize that the moment didn’t just suddenly rise up. It came about as a result of a series of unwise decisions or actions. The slippery slope of my own accumulated choices brought me to this tipping point; this moment of “oh crap, this isn’t where I want to be”.
I love the way Andy Stanley coaches us up to think this through. Andy’s framework directs us to ask that our “wise” decisions be based on: (1) past experiences, (2) current situation, or (3) future hopes and dreams.
So it goes like this. . . based on my past experiences, the current situation and my future hopes and dreams, what is the wise decision to make or course of action to take?
When we put this framework into play with our decision-making, we create the opportunity for greater discernment and wiser decisions.
A key attribute to this framework is the “my future hopes and dreams” which enables our minds to focus on where we want to head as leaders and professionals.
As leaders, we must continue to improve. We must become wiser and make better decisions. We must work hard to become wise leaders walking.
Coaching Thoughts – For You and Your Peers
- What are your future hopes and dreams as a leader? Take 20 minutes to write them down.
- Look back at a recent conversation you had or decision you made and apply the framework in history.
- Do you have future hope and dreams for each of your employees?
