Leading from inside out

We can argue for all eternity about a variety of leadership aspects, among them the most recurrent would be whether leadership is a natural or developed attribute, or even a combination of both.

But if there is one thing I see no room for argumentation, it is that to lead is to take responsibility for deciding.

And then, for having decided.

And that not deciding is deciding: deciding not to decide, like those who hide behind the desk and the clock waiting for someone else to decide or for circumstances to change so they don’t need to take a stand... and decide.

- Ah... but deciding is so hard, some will say.

To which I answer: yes, it is. And that is exactly why we need someone to take on this difficult task. And decide.

- Ah... but I could be wrong and make the wrong decision.

My answer is yes, again. Are you afraid of making the wrong decision? I can assure you, you will always make a mistake if you simply don't decide.

Do you want to make better decisions? Get team’s support, usually better informed about the details than you are, listen to them, listen to other good advisors, check pros and cons.

And make a decision. This is your role.

Author: Eduardo Cupaiolo - https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/eduardocupaiolo/