Every day we face decisions – some simple, others deeply complex. But how do we ensure our decisions are both effective and resilient, especially in complex and challenging situations?
Barack Obama, former president of the United States, developed a thoughtful decision-making process and shared valuable insights from his experience:
“… in just a few short weeks on the job, I had already realized that because every tough decision came down to a probability, then certainty was an impossibility . . . I created a sound decision-making process — one where I really listened to the experts, followed the facts, considered my goals and weighed all of that against my principles.”
Obama’s approach underscores the essential elements for effective decision-making: actively listening to experts and creating space to think deeply.
In our fast-paced society, there’s constant pressure to form opinions quickly, before we’ve fully considered the facts. This rush often undermines our ability to fully form our own, well-considered perspectives. As Obama noted:
“When you have a tough, almost unsolvable decision to make, you don’t just want people to tell you what you want to hear.”
Every leader has its blind spots, and the courage of experts to challenge ideas and ask difficult questions is invaluable. However, creating an environment where they feel safe to voice these perspectives is crucial. A supportive space encourages honest input and innovative thinking, which are vital for making effective decisions.
In complex and challenging situations, listening to diverse viewpoints and allowing time for thoughtful considerations are not just important – they’re essential.
By focusing on these essentials, leaders can make decisions that are not only effective but also robust and adaptable, ready to withstand and adjust whatever challenges may come.