Leadership - The Power Of The Decision-Maker

Today I want to introduce the concept of a leader as a decision maker.? Not in the traditional sense, but within the parameters of our brain functions.? You can read the full and unabridged version of my article, Higher Self Leader As Decision Maker , by clicking the link.

As I led people and coached, I realised we can choose how we see things. Questioning our auto-responses and knowing that we have choices about our perceptions shows that we're the decision-makers. Cultivating self-awareness about this choice transforms our perspective.

Life often feels like acting in a predetermined script, reacting to unfolding scenes. However, a profound shift happens when we see ourselves as observers. We can look upon ourselves as we are reacting or taking action.? We can interpret and respond to the script in our unique way. Once you take a look at yourself and understand you have a choice, then inevitably the realisation dawns that you are also a decision-maker.

Understanding the Brain's Dual Processing

The brain processes information through two main pathways: the amygdala and the pre-frontal cortex.? I talk about choosing between our two thought systems in my article Choosing A Higher Self Thought System .? This concept extends on that premise and invites you to consider the principles as a decision-maker.

The amygdala handles primal instincts and immediate emotional responses like fear and aggression. It processes information quickly, triggering automatic reactions to threats.

Conversely, the pre-frontal cortex manages higher-order thinking, rational thought, decision-making, and positive interpretation. This part processes information slowly and thoughtfully, considering various perspectives and outcomes before reacting. Realising we can choose between these two methods is key to higher self leadership.

The Ego vs. The Higher Self

Our initial response to information often comes through the amygdala, the domain of the ego . The ego focuses on self-preservation, usually prioritising immediate safety and self-interest, leading to defensive reactions.

However, engaging our pre-frontal cortex taps into our higher self . The higher self transcends the ego's concerns, interpreting information with a broader perspective. This choice involves deliberate reflection and conscious decision-making, considering long-term benefits and the greater good.

Keegan's Level 5 of Self-Awareness

Expanding on higher self-leadership, I earlier explored Keegan's levels of self-awareness , in great detail.? Today we zone in on Level 5, which aligns with effective decision making. Robert Kegan proposed that individuals evolve through stages of self-awareness, culminating in the self-transforming mind or Level 5.

At Level 5, individuals possess profound self-awareness and understand the interconnectedness of perspectives. They integrate and transcend their internal processes, holding multiple viewpoints simultaneously and recognising the fluid nature of identity and thought.

For decision-making, individuals at Level 5 can observe their reactions, whether from the amygdala or pre-frontal cortex, without being dominated by them. They step back, reflect on their impulses, and choose responses that align with their higher self and greater goals. This advanced self-awareness fosters adaptive and thoughtful decision-making, reducing ego-driven actions.

Viktor Frankl's Story

One of the most empowering realisations in higher self leadership is understanding our choice in interpreting and responding to information. While our natural wiring sends information through the amygdala first, we can consciously engage our pre-frontal cortex. This halts our automatic reaction and allows for a more thoughtful response.

An example of this is Viktor Frankl, an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor. Frankl developed logotherapy, a form of existential analysis. During his imprisonment in Nazi concentration camps, Frankl chose to change his perception of his circumstances.

Instead of succumbing to despair, he sought meaning in his suffering. This mindset shift shows the brain's capacity for neuroplasticity, the ability to form new neural connections. He cultivated inner freedom and resilience. This mental transformation gave him purpose and enhanced his psychological endurance. His story demonstrates the profound impact of cognitive reframing on human experience, even in dire conditions.

Fast and Slow Thinking

Fast and slow thinking , concepts popularised by psychologist Daniel Kahneman, refer to two modes of decision-making: System 1 and System 2. System 1 (fast thinking) is automatic, quick, and often subconscious, relying on heuristics and past experiences. It is efficient for routine decisions and situations requiring immediate action.

In contrast, slow thinking (System 2) is deliberate, analytical, and conscious, engaging the brain's reasoning capabilities to solve complex problems . This mode is used for important decisions, like planning investments or strategising business moves. It is system 2 thinking that engages a leader's intuition.

You Are A Decision Maker

Higher self-leadership involves recognising our power as decision-makers in interpreting information. By understanding the roles of the amygdala and pre-frontal cortex, we can choose how to respond. Integrating advanced self-awareness enables us to respond from higher self-awareness, reducing ego-driven reactions and enhancing personal growth . It fosters a more positive and enlightened interaction with the world. You are not just an actor in a play. You are the observer, the director, and the decision-maker of your life's narrative.

You can read the full and unabridged version of my article, Higher Self Leader As Decision Maker , by clicking the link.

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Articles In The Series

• Higher Self Leadership And The Power Of Vision
• How Higher Self Leaders Build Resilience
• Higher Self Leader As The Decision Maker
• Understanding and Overcoming Self-Sabotage; Avoiding Painful Choices
• Servant Leadership And Unity Consciousness Results In Excellent Customer Service
• Leading With Integrity From Your Higher Self
• Using Emotions For Personal Growth
• Leadership Development And Neuroscience
• Using The Art Of Journaling To Boost Self Awareness
• How Leaders Harness The Power Of Creativity To Create Memorable Change
• A Guide To Leading With Unity Consciousness
• Choosing A Higher Self Thought System
• 5 Ways Neuroscience Shows Leaders Need A Coach
• How To Become A Self-Aware Leader: A Journey of Self Discovery
• Higher Self Leaders Avoid The Temptation Of Specialness
• Understanding the Difference Between Inspiring and Motivating Your Team
• Relationships Are The Heart Of Higher Self Leadership
• 7 Uncommon Ways to Be a Positive Influence on You and Your Team
• Leadership Attitudes of Higher Self Leaders
• 7 Essential Mindset Shifts Of Higher Self Leaders
• Leading From Your Higher Self

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