Which Ship Will You Choose?

In our world, we hear much about decision-making. There are strategic decisions, tactical decisions, partnering decisions, professional decisions, personal decisions, and the list continues...

I've observed various decision-making models that sought to create a process that would ensure good decisions. While structure and sometimes complex equations and models can be helpful, the ability to make good, strong, solid decisions is still an elusive characteristic among leaders.

I was in a coaching session with a seasoned executive, and we were talking about making decisions. He shared, "When my children were young, I gave them this advice: Be careful what ship you choose to set sail with, because getting on the wrong ship will bring you into troubled waters."

Decisions that result from a well thought out and intentional plan always are better than those that come from impulsivity and reaction. Perhaps the real problem with weak decision-making has less to do with the issue at hand and more to do with our choice of how we are handling that issue. It takes discipline to slow down, look at all the data, and think through all the angles and consequences of a situation. It then takes strength to make a solid decision and manage it to completion.

When we develop the ability to board the ship of decision-making that is surrounded by discipline and thoughtful process, we will experience fewer troubled waters. Choose to lead with solid decisions, and you will make a difference.

Dr. Larry Little, CEO