Making the RIGHT decisions

Leaders, since we are all human beings and subject to mistakes, do not always make the best decisions.  Sometimes, as a person and as a leader, we can be seen as a failure due to our incorrect decisions or for taking the wrong path.  I encourage you and want to share that in making decisions, the most important learning is that you make the right decision.

In stating right, I am not affirming it is correct, just the best and right decision you can make at that time.  The question is, how do you know what is the right decision?

Four key factors should be considered, and when all 4 are properly met, you know that you are making the right decision, and they are:

1. True
2. Vision
3. Council
4. Spirit 

First and foremost, what the decision, action or statement you are going to make must be completely true, not trueish, as in a white lie.  We all know the stories where you were never asked that question, so you didn't share the information that would have made the other person aware of the entire truth.  What you are doing or saying must be completely and totally honest, transparent and truthful.  There can be nothing hidden, or unstated.  There can not be any deception on your part, whether intended or just underlying. 

Next, the statement or actions must be aligned with your vision.  What you do, each and every day, should fulfill the mission and always upload and honor the vision.  Whether it be a company, a team or your family, decisions that stand outside or contrary to the vision of the whole, will, in the end, hurt the individuals and the whole.  Always ensure the vision is being met by the actions you take.

Move on, we come to council.  We have discussed council previously, bottom line, your most trusted (few) advisers need to agree and support you in your decision.  This again, is 2 or 3 very trusted, known peers that fully know you, the vision and your values.  They hold you accountable on a daily walk in you entire life, and therefore have the credibility and wisdom to guide you in key areas.

Finally, your inner spirit.  Some will call this intuition, others will call it gut, some will say "let your conscience be your guide.  As a Christian, I know the Holy Spirit is that voice within each of us that helps us in those most critical moments.  When we listen to our inner spirit, we do not feel guilty, we do not feel conflict.  You know that empty, turning feeling inside when you know what you did is wrong, that conflict shouldn't be there if you are making the right decision.

Take your time, walk through all four steps, this is the best way to ensure that the key decisions, will be the right one.