Removing Bias When Making Decisions: PICKING A SEAT VS. CHOOSING A SIDE.

As a commercial banker, mom, and volunteer looking to do good within the regional community where I live and work; there is no denying that my profession fits the person I've become like a glove.

Decisions that I'd make daily in business would often require asking myself "is this a matter of fact or a matter of law" when sorting through a highly subjective set of circumstances that often-contain elements that bind a perspective client, or customer to performing services or delivering goods, based on several independent contracts (AR/AP). [Basically, deciphering data pertaining whether or not to support a project with several-million-dollars of senior debt finance, as a commercial debt provider who is also skilled in leading several facets of FX, in order to meet the working capital needs of industry that also aspires to keep up with global supply chain demand, and complexity of sourced raw material.]

Also, now looking back at several successful programs which support 1) workforce development, 2) technological/robotic advancement to benefit global supply chains, and 3) the "greater good for humanity" on a very broad scale; I can't help but see two distinct sides to every coin. And just as a coin has two sides, there are multiple viewpoints to every story, in business and in life, it would seem.

Above said, I find that great leaders and advisors can remain objective in a variety of circumstances to meet individuals where they are. With this open mindset, it seems that an effective objective truth can find its way to the surface. To me, this is what allows for a solid and informed decision to be made on any subjective set of circumstances. Afterall, I make lending and credit decisions based on "the best calculated guess of others" for a living; where over time my effectiveness ratio demonstrates that I'm a better than average judge when it comes to repayment of corporate debt, as evidenced by my portfolio performance.

I will also emphasize that the little things really are the big things in life. However, I find that too many people [today] seem rushed when it comes to figuring out which of the little things become the ones that REALLY matter. [AKA KPI's in business.]

Perhaps this speaks to the economic cycle we find ourselves in, again, today. "I'm not here to judge, I'm here to help," has become a tagline that I have lived by for the last 15 years. Giving grace and showing understanding to [the CXO's] who choose to work with me, or someone on my team, has led to some great long-term relationships - and business outcomes!

I also have a very deep appreciation for the importance of philanthropy within our vital economic ecosystems. While I'm not blessed to be independently wealthy; I am fortunate to have a better than average understanding of business, entrepreneurship, and the economies of scale that are required to multiply the generous financial gifts of others within the Midwest Region of this small global economy!

Notably, success within any economic ecosystem will require having both "ways and means" identified.

I'll often joke that I was only provided with one of the keys to this winning formula, which is the one to formulate "ways" [confirming a solid financial plan for business and general economic prosperity]. But at the same time, it's not a joking matter that I take to heart, much of the sage advice passed down from my grandmother; and the stories that she, and others, often told when no one realized I was listening as a child.

I will do what I can to ensure our children have the life that she and others envisioned, becomes an important part of my ongoing inspiration, "My WHY."

While growing up I'd think back to what it must have been like, in 1951 as my grandparents boarded the USATS General Harry Taylor as "Class DP" (Displaced Persons) with two young children in tow. To make a better life for their family in America, "Home of the Free, Because of the Brave."

My grandmother had been born in what was once Czechoslovakia, and to this day we are unsure of my grandfather's true heritage other than "European." I am proud to say that my sister and I are first born US Citizens on my mom's side, which becomes hard to fathom some days. I think this speaks to my deep appreciation for the many things we have in life.

I think many facets of our individual up bringing's are what may create an ongoing desire to make a difference for the generations that follow. Using my acquired wisdom and skills, "being a commercial banker, mom, and "doer" within our community," I have a deep appreciation for anyone in leadership who will show up, in order to ask questions firsthand; to meet the needs within the communities we are collectively trying to improve daily through our actions, and interactions.

Deep down I think everyone has a common desire to belong to something greater than themselves. I see this in my volunteerism with The Joseph Project, and for this I remain grateful to serve as a volunteer over many years. We all contribute to a common goal, but each individual takes away so much more regardless of which side of the desk we're sitting on.

#DoGood #Inspriation #LightTheWay #BetterTogether #MakeADifference #Leadership #IronSharpensIron #RippleEffect #BrightFuture #SolutionsArchitect