The Process for Tough Decisions
Simple systems are extremely predictable and require few interactions or interventions. And while complicated systems have many moving parts, their operations are predictable; there are clear patterns. Complex systems may operate in patterned ways, but their interactions are continually changing.
Wise leaders continuously assess and adjust for new data, as well as all of the possible consequences of a change:
- Identify subject matter experts and resources. A wise leader relies on data, but also ensures that the right questions are being asked, to (and by) the right experts.
- Collect accurate, verifiable, and reliable information. Recognize interests, goals, and values to create context for the data.
- Evaluate and annotate findings. While you may be tempted to discard information that may be unreliable, incomplete, biased, etc., save the information with notations for future reference.
- Create time and space to reflect on the information. Examine it with your mind, gut, and heart, by asking yourself:
- “What is socially just?”
- “Who stands to benefit the most?”
- “Who is most at risk?”
- “How will this impact the future?”
- “What are the impacts today?”
- “What is the right thing to do, right now?”
Sometimes, taking more time before acting is the wisest thing to do. To be sure, action is important. But give yourself time to embrace the elements that make you wise, as well as the paradoxes:
- Recognize your limits, and ask for help when needed. Act with humility and courage.
- Acknowledge feelings, practice temperance in expression, and strengthen your emotional resilience.
- Allow time and space for others, as well as self. Be patient, forgiving, and show mercy.
- Practice compassion and fairness. View situations as they are, with a dispassionate, clear eye of human nature.
- Demonstrate your ability to cope with adversity: be brave, persistent, and act with integrity.
- Embrace ambiguity, practice gratitude, and cultivate hope that more shall be revealed.
All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone. - Blaise Pascal
In Health, Wealth and Happiness,
Maynard
Dr. Maynard Brusman
Consulting Psychologist & Executive Coach
Trusted Leadership Advisor
Professional Certified Coach (PCC), International Coach Federation
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San Francisco Bay Area
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