When I noticed an emerging leader feeling unsure about their decision-making, I decided to lend a hand by sharing some of my own experiences and challenges. I sat down with them to talk through their concerns and offered to help them break down the decision-making process into smaller, manageable steps. We practiced making decisions together on some low-stakes issues, which helped build their confidence. I also reminded them that it’s totally normal to feel uncertain and that every decision is a chance to learn. Seeing them gradually find their voice and trust their instincts was super rewarding!

To help an emerging leader gain confidence in their decision-making, I would start by creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable taking risks and making decisions without fear of failure. I would encourage them to trust their instincts and remind them that mistakes are part of the learning process. Providing guidance through mentorship, sharing insights from my own experiences, and offering constructive feedback can help them refine their approach. Celebrating their successes, even small ones, builds their confidence over time.

The need to understand what is really going on and actively listen is a good first step. After that you will be in a better place to guide and help the emerging leader. This could come in several different ways: 1. Help them think back to times when they have confidently made good decisions - this will remind them and bolster their self confidence. 2. Share your experiences and include times when you felt unsure about decisions and what happened. 3. Break down the task into smaller area's and ask the emerging leader to focus on a section at a time. 4. Tell them they can run things by you. Be careful not to give them the answers but instead, encourage them to think and arrive at solutions themselves.

Knowing that growth takes time for new leaders, support them. Let them know that you are willing to coach and mentor them to be better leaders. Give them the freedom to: >Make decisions >Be creative >Learn new skill sets Being a leader requires trial and error. Encourage them to be open to feedback and provide constructive criticism.