An interview with Maria Angelova
Consider the Human Element: Remember the impact of the decision on the people involved. Consider the perspectives and needs of team members, clients, and other stakeholders. For example, in our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when restructuring the team to accommodate growth, I took into account the skills, strengths, and aspirations of individual team members, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption. This consideration of the human element fosters trust, engagement, and a positive work environment.
As a leader, some things are just unavoidable. Being faced with hard choices is one of them. Leadership often entails making difficult decisions or hard choices between two apparently good paths. What’s the best way to go about this? Is there a “toolkit” or a skill set to help leaders sort out their feelings and make the best possible decisions? As part of our series about “How Leaders Make Difficult Decisions,” we had the pleasure of interviewing Harvard Certified Performance Coach Desiree’ Stapleton.
Desiree’ Stapleton is the Harvard Certified, 2x ’30 Under 30’ Honoree and Forbes ‘Next 1000’ Nominated Performance Coach, Author, CEO, and Creator of Goal Accomplishment Made Easy and the Self-Help App. She teaches women goal-setting and how to overcome obstacles and lead a life of fulfillment, while also providing tools and resources to ensure that they can get and stay on track with hitting their goals.
Thank you so much for your time! I know that you are a very busy person. Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’ and how you got started?
My backstory begins roughly 36 months ago when I was going through a difficult period in my life. I had faced a traumatic experience at my job and made the tough decision to speak out about it, even if it meant facing uncertain outcomes. Unfortunately, I was laid off as a result. Around the same time, my relationship had ended, and my ex had moved on with someone within our social circle. I felt cast aside and discarded in two important areas of my life, going from a steady income to having nothing.
The repercussions of my decision to speak out were evident at my former job, as people distanced themselves from me. I even declared my willingness to take my experience with them to the media if they didn’t appropriately address the situation involving the other party. This led to sides being taken, whispers, and judgmental looks in both situations.
Feeling overwhelmed and hopeless, I reached a point where I no longer wanted to continue living. I drove home recklessly, not caring about the consequences and even hoping for a tragic accident to end it all quickly. At that moment, I was truly at a crossroads: either continue down a path of self-destruction or find a way to make my life worth living.
Fortunately, two thoughts emerged in my mind. First, I realized that I had a choice between ending my life or making it worth living. Second, I questioned why I should allow others to thrive while I suffered. These thoughts sparked a determination within me to turn my life around.
I started by seeking therapy and making a promise to myself. Before considering ending my life, I would go after every dream I had ever had. I embraced the mindset of “screw them” regarding my ex and embarked on creating my brand called FMYX. Initially, I focused on writing a book, which had always been a dream of mine. I used my savings, took out loans, utilized unemployment benefits, and even received COVID stimulus checks to hire someone to publish the book. It was published in November of that year.
Although my former workplace had technically addressed the issue by letting go of the individual involved, I felt it wasn’t enough. I decided to take that person to court, and to my satisfaction, I won the case. This victory held deep significance for me, as it allowed me to validate that what had happened was not okay, and I was no longer willing to tolerate such mistreatment.
To sustain myself financially, I went back to doing the work I had always done and quickly secured three clients. This stability provided me with the opportunity to focus on helping women facing similar challenges to mine. I pivoted from FMYX to my personal brand, becoming heavily involved in teaching women resilience and guiding them toward achieving their goals.
As I gained more visibility, I began to receive press coverage and even got featured in Forbes Magazine. This exposure helped me establish my second company, a boutique consulting firm aimed at providing tools and resources for personal and professional enhancement to everyday individuals. I learned firsthand the importance of goals and personal growth, as they played a significant role in saving me from my darkest moments.
With my second company thriving, I developed an app called The Self-Help App. Recognizing the value of personal growth, I wanted to create a positive and motivating space for individuals to enhance their personal development. This app aimed to restore hope and progress by providing tools and resources for personal growth and goal accomplishment.
I continued to grow personally and professionally, and my business expanded to the point where I could bring on a team. Currently, I am actively planning my move to the west coast and preparing to purchase my dream car in a few weeks.
I share my story with you to emphasize that each person possesses the strength and capabilities to live the life they envision. I want you to know that you are worthy of
achieving your dreams and that you have what it takes to overcome any obstacles that come your way. From one warrior to another, I encourage you to persevere, outlast all the challenges, and be the last one standing. You have the power to create a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I am grateful for myself in helping get me to where I am today. Throughout my journey, I have been my own source of motivation, determination, and resilience. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, I made the conscious choice to believe in myself and take action towards my goals.
There have been moments when I doubted my abilities or felt overwhelmed by the challenges I faced. During those times, I had to dig deep within myself to find the strength and courage to keep going. I relied on my inner voice, my self-belief, and my unwavering commitment to my dreams.
One particular story that stands out is when I decided to publish my book. It was a dream I had always held close to my heart, but the journey towards becoming a published author seemed daunting. I had to overcome financial constraints and navigate the publishing process on my own. It would have been easy to give up or seek external validation and support, but I chose to trust in myself.
I used my savings, took out loans, and utilized unemployment benefits and COVID stimulus checks to gather the resources I needed. I researched and hired someone to help me publish the book. It was a challenging and uncertain process, but I pushed through the doubts and setbacks.
Eventually, my book was published and was picked up by Walmart, and seeing it in print was a moment of immense pride and accomplishment. I realized that I had relied on my own determination, resourcefulness, and belief in myself to make it happen. It was a testament to the power of self-reliance and the inner strength that resides within each of us.
While I am grateful for the support I have received from others along the way, ultimately, it was my own dedication and unwavering belief in myself that propelled me forward. I continue to be grateful for the person I have become and the resilience I have cultivated within myself, because had I made a slightly different decision, I wouldn’t be here.
Thank you for all that. Let’s now turn to the main focus of our discussion. Can you share with our readers a story from your own experience about how you lead your team during uncertain or difficult times?
One particular story that comes to mind is when my team faced a major setback during a project (while trying to create Goal Accomplishment Made Easy). We were working on a critical deadline, and unforeseen circumstances led to a significant roadblock. The team was demoralized, and it felt like our progress was unraveling.
As a leader, I understood the importance of maintaining morale and resilience during such challenging times. I gathered the team together and addressed the situation openly and honestly. I acknowledged their frustrations and concerns, emphasizing that setbacks were a natural part of the process and that we had the capability to overcome them.
To navigate through the uncertainty, I focused on fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. I encouraged open communication, allowing team members to express their thoughts, fears, and suggestions. By creating a safe space for dialogue, we were able to collectively brainstorm potential solutions and strategies to move forward.
Furthermore, I leveraged my own experiences and shared stories of past challenges I had overcome personally. I emphasized that setbacks were opportunities for growth and learning, highlighting that our response to adversity would define our success. I reminded the team of our shared vision and the impact our work could have, rekindling their motivation and sense of purpose.
In addition to providing emotional support, I facilitated practical actions to address the setback. I delegated tasks effectively, ensuring that each team member had a clear role and understood their responsibilities. I encouraged collaboration and fostered an environment where team members could support and learn from each other.
Throughout the process, I remained transparent about the progress we were making, sharing updates and celebrating small victories. I also offered regular feedback and recognition, ensuring that each team member felt valued and appreciated for their contributions.
By leading with empathy, resilience, and a focus on shared purpose, we were able to overcome the setback and successfully complete the project. The experience reinforced the importance of effective leadership during uncertain or difficult times. It taught me that by instilling confidence, fostering open communication, and nurturing a supportive team culture, we can navigate challenges together and emerge stronger as a collective.
Did you ever consider giving up? Where did you get the motivation to continue through challenges? What sustains your drive?
Yes, there were moments when I considered giving up. The challenges I faced were overwhelming, and it would have been easy to succumb to self-doubt and despair. However, I firmly believe that fully giving up was never an option for me. The motivation to continue came from within, from my unwavering belief in my dreams and the determination to create a better life for myself. Even as I laid on the floor ugly crying and staring up at the ceiling for hours, motionless.
During those difficult times, what sustained my drive was a combination of factors. Firstly, the vision I held for my future played a crucial role. I had a clear picture of the impact I wanted to make in the lives of others and the legacy I wanted to leave behind. This vision became my guiding light, propelling me forward even when the path seemed treacherous.
Secondly, my past successes, no matter how small, served as reminders of my capabilities and resilience. Each milestone achieved, such as publishing my book or winning a court case, became a source of strength and motivation. I realized that if I had overcome obstacles before, I had the inner strength to face future challenges as well.
Furthermore, the support and encouragement I received from those who believed in me played a significant role in sustaining my drive. Friends, family, and mentors provided a support system that reminded me I was not alone on this journey. Their belief in my abilities boosted my confidence and motivated me to keep pushing forward.
Lastly, personal growth and continuous learning fueled my drive. I had experienced the transformative power of setting goals, pushing beyond my comfort zone, and achieving personal and professional growth. The desire to keep evolving, to become the best version of myself, served as a driving force. I sought out opportunities for self-improvement, whether it was through reading books, attending workshops, or seeking guidance from experts in my field.
In summary, the combination of a clear vision, past successes, support from loved ones, and a commitment to personal growth sustained my drive during challenging times. These factors reminded me of my purpose, my capabilities, and the infinite possibilities that lay ahead.
Leadership often entails making difficult decisions or hard choices between two apparently good paths. Can you share a story with us about a hard decision or choice you had to make as a leader?
Certainly. One challenging decision I faced as a leader involved a situation where two valuable team members had conflicting ideas about the direction of a critical project (when trying to create Goal Accomplishment Made Easy). Both individuals were highly skilled and brought unique perspectives to the table, and their ideas had merit. However, their differences threatened to create a rift within the team and jeopardize the project’s success.
As a leader, it was my responsibility to maintain a cohesive and collaborative team environment while ensuring that we achieved our goals. I recognized the importance of addressing the conflict promptly and finding a resolution that would benefit the project and the team as a whole.
To tackle this issue, I initiated a series of open and honest discussions with the team members involved. I encouraged them to share their ideas, concerns, and vision for the project. It was important for me to actively listen and understand the underlying motivations and perspectives of each team member.
After gathering all the necessary information and gaining insights from both sides, I realized that neither idea was a perfect solution on its own. I had to make a difficult choice between the two paths, weighing the potential risks, benefits, and long-term implications for the project and the team’s dynamics.
In making my decision, I sought a compromise that incorporated elements from both ideas. I facilitated a constructive dialogue where the team members could explore ways to integrate their concepts and find common ground. Through collaborative brainstorming and negotiation, we arrived at a hybrid solution that leveraged the strengths of each approach while mitigating the potential drawbacks.
Communicating this decision to the team was crucial. I gathered everyone together and transparently explained the rationale behind the chosen path, emphasizing the shared goals and the value each team member brought to the project. I also highlighted the importance of unity, trust, and collective ownership of the decision moving forward.
While it was a challenging process, the hard decision I made helped the team overcome the conflict and refocus their efforts towards achieving our objectives. The project progressed successfully, and the team members grew professionally by learning from one another’s perspectives and collaborating in a more harmonious manner.
This experience taught me the importance of effective communication, active listening, and maintaining a solution-oriented mindset as a leader. It reinforced the significance of making tough decisions for the greater good, even when faced with seemingly good options. Ultimately, by balancing different viewpoints and finding a middle ground, we were able to foster a stronger and more resilient team.
What process or toolset can a leader use to make a choice between two difficult paths?
When faced with a difficult choice between two paths as a leader, there are several processes and toolsets that can assist in making an informed decision. Here are a few approaches that can be helpful:
1. Gather information: Start by gathering all relevant information and data related to each path. This may involve conducting research, seeking expert opinions, or engaging in discussions with team members or stakeholders. The more comprehensive your understanding of the options, the better equipped you’ll be to make an informed choice.
2. Assess pros and cons: Create a structured framework to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each path. This can be done through a simple pros and cons list or a more comprehensive decision matrix. Consider factors such as feasibility, potential risks, alignment with goals and values, resource requirements, and potential outcomes. This analytical approach can help in objectively assessing the potential benefits and drawbacks of each path.
3. Consider long-term implications: Think beyond immediate outcomes and consider the long-term implications of each path. Consider how each choice aligns with the overall vision, mission, and values of the organization or team. Evaluate how each path may impact stakeholders, team dynamics, and future opportunities. Taking a holistic view of the consequences can guide you in choosing the path that aligns best with the desired long-term outcomes.
4. Seek diverse perspectives: Encourage input from team members or trusted advisors who have different perspectives and expertise. Engaging in open discussions and seeking feedback from those who will be impacted by the decision can bring fresh insights and challenge potential biases. A diverse range of perspectives can help identify blind spots, uncover hidden opportunities, and provide a more comprehensive view of the situation.
5. Consider the impact on stakeholders: Analyze the potential impact of each path on various stakeholders, such as team members, clients, customers, or the community. Assess the implications for each stakeholder group and consider their needs, expectations, and potential reactions. Balancing the interests of different stakeholders can guide you in making a decision that takes into account the broader impact and builds positive relationships.
6. Trust your intuition: While data and analysis are essential, it’s also important to trust your intuition and gut instincts as a leader. Reflect on your values, experiences, and insights gained throughout your leadership journey. Sometimes, intuition can guide you towards the path that aligns more closely with your overall vision and purpose.
Ultimately, the decision-making process will depend on the specific context and the complexity of the situation. By combining objective analysis, input from diverse perspectives, and trust in your own judgment, you can navigate difficult choices with more clarity and confidence.
Do you have a mentor or someone you can turn to for support and advice? How does this help? When can a mentor be helpful? When is this not helpful?
Yes, having a mentor or someone to turn to for support and advice can be immensely valuable in one’s personal and professional growth. Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to have mentors who have provided guidance, wisdom, and support.
Having a mentor is helpful in several ways:
1. Perspective and guidance: A mentor offers a different perspective based on their experiences and expertise. They can provide insights and advice that help broaden your understanding of a situation or challenge. They offer guidance and share their knowledge to help you navigate through complex decisions or dilemmas.
2. Emotional support: A mentor serves as a source of emotional support during challenging times. They lend a listening ear, offer encouragement, and help you see beyond temporary setbacks. Their empathy and understanding can provide comfort and reassurance, boosting your resilience and motivation.
3. Networking and connections: Mentors often have extensive networks and can connect you with valuable contacts, opportunities, or resources. They can introduce you to people in your field of interest, offer recommendations, or help open doors that may otherwise be difficult to access.
4. Skill development: Mentors can help identify areas for improvement and provide guidance on skill development. They may offer constructive feedback, suggest learning resources, or even provide hands-on training. Their expertise can accelerate your growth and enhance your capabilities.
A mentor can be particularly helpful when you are at key junctures in your career or facing significant challenges such as career transitions, decision-making crossroads, or skill development needs. They can provide guidance, draw from their own experiences, and share lessons learned to help you make informed choices.
However, it is essential to recognize that mentorship is not always beneficial in every situation. Here are a few instances when mentorship may not be as helpful:
1. Lack of alignment: If there is a significant misalignment between your goals, values, or approaches, the advice or guidance provided by a mentor may not resonate with you. It’s crucial to find mentors whose perspectives and values align with your own to ensure their advice is relevant and beneficial.
2. Limited perspective: While mentors offer valuable insights, they are still individuals with their own biases, experiences, and limitations. It’s essential to seek diverse perspectives and not rely solely on one mentor. Consider gathering insights from multiple sources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.
3. Dependency: Overreliance on a mentor can hinder your growth and independence. It’s important to strike a balance between seeking guidance and taking ownership of your decisions. Remember that ultimately, you are responsible for your own journey and should develop the ability to make decisions autonomously.
In summary, having a mentor can provide invaluable support, guidance, and inspiration on your path to personal and professional growth. They offer insights, connections, and emotional support that can help you overcome challenges and reach your goals. However, it’s essential to seek mentors whose values align with yours and maintain a balance between seeking guidance and developing your own capabilities.
What would you say is the most critical role of a leader when faced with a difficult decision?
When faced with a difficult decision, the most critical role of a leader is to provide effective decision-making leadership. Here are some key aspects that contribute to this role:
1. Clarity and Vision: A leader must have a clear understanding of the organization’s vision, goals, and values. This clarity helps guide the decision-making process and ensures that decisions align with the broader purpose and direction of the organization. By keeping the vision in mind, a leader can make decisions that contribute to long-term success.
2. Strategic Thinking: A leader must think strategically and consider the potential impact of the decision on various stakeholders, the organization as a whole, and its future trajectory. They need to analyze the available information, anticipate potential outcomes, and weigh the risks and benefits. Strategic thinking helps a leader make informed decisions that align with the overall strategy and goals.
3. Emotional Intelligence: Difficult decisions often come with emotional implications for individuals or teams involved. A leader must demonstrate emotional intelligence by understanding and empathizing with the emotions of those affected. They should create a safe and supportive environment for open communication, actively listen to concerns, and consider the emotional impact of the decision. Balancing empathy with the need for objective analysis is crucial for effective decision-making.
4. Communication and Transparency: Open and transparent communication is vital when making difficult decisions. A leader should clearly articulate the rationale behind the decision, involve relevant stakeholders, and provide opportunities for feedback or input. Transparent communication fosters trust, reduces resistance, and helps individuals understand the reasoning behind the decision, even if they may not fully agree with it.
5. Accountability and Ownership: A leader must take accountability for the decision and its outcomes. They should accept responsibility for the consequences and be willing to adapt or adjust if needed. By demonstrating ownership, a leader instills confidence in their team and sets an example of integrity and commitment.
6. Continuous Learning: Making difficult decisions is an ongoing learning process. A leader should embrace a growth mindset and view difficult decisions as opportunities for growth and development. They should reflect on the outcomes, seek feedback, and learn from both successes and failures. Continuous learning ensures that a leader evolves and improves their decision-making skills over time.
In summary, the most critical role of a leader when faced with a difficult decision is to provide effective decision-making leadership. This entails having clarity and vision, strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, transparent communication, accountability, and a commitment to continuous learning. By embodying these qualities, a leader can navigate difficult decisions with integrity, empathy, and a focus on long-term success.
Do you ever look back at your decisions and wish you had done things differently? How can a leader remain positive and motivated despite past mistakes?
Yes, looking back at past decisions, it is natural to reflect and occasionally wish that things could have been done differently. As a leader, I have certainly experienced moments where I questioned my choices and wondered about alternative paths. However, dwelling on regrets or past mistakes can be counterproductive and hinder personal growth and motivation.
To remain positive and motivated despite past mistakes, here are a few strategies:
1. Learn and Adapt: Instead of fixating on regrets, view mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. Analyze what went wrong, identify the lessons, and consider how you can apply those insights in future decision-making. Embrace a growth mindset and use past mistakes as stepping stones for personal and professional development.
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Accept that making mistakes is a part of the learning process. Treat yourself with kindness and self-compassion when reflecting on past decisions. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes, and it is through these experiences that we grow and improve. Avoid dwelling on self-blame and focus on growth and improvement.
3. Focus on the Present and Future: While reflecting on the past is important for learning, it is essential to shift your focus to the present and future. Direct your energy towards the opportunities and challenges ahead. Set new goals, create a clear vision, and develop a plan for moving forward. By looking ahead, you can stay motivated and work towards future success.
4. Seek Feedback and Support: Surround yourself with trusted mentors, advisors, or peers who can provide constructive feedback and support. Engage in open and honest conversations about your past decisions, seeking their perspectives and insights. Their guidance and encouragement can help you maintain a positive outlook and motivation.
5. Celebrate Successes: Remind yourself of your accomplishments and successes, even amidst past mistakes. Celebrate the positive outcomes and milestones you have achieved. By focusing on your achievements, you reinforce a positive mindset and build confidence in your decision-making abilities.
6. Embrace Resilience: Resilience is crucial for leaders when facing challenges or reflecting on past mistakes. Embrace the ability to bounce back, adapt, and persevere in the face of adversity. Cultivate resilience by focusing on your strengths, maintaining a positive outlook, and developing coping mechanisms to handle setbacks effectively.
In summary, it is natural to have moments of reflection and wish for different outcomes when looking back at past decisions. However, by adopting a growth mindset, practicing self-compassion, focusing on the present and future, seeking feedback and support, celebrating successes, and embracing resilience, leaders can remain positive, motivated, and continue their journey of growth and success.
What is the best way to boost morale when the future seems uncertain? What can a leader do to inspire, motivate and engage their team during uncertaiun times?
Boosting morale during uncertain times is essential for maintaining team motivation and productivity. Here are some strategies leaders can employ to inspire, motivate, and engage their teams:
1. Open and Transparent Communication: Foster a culture of open and transparent communication. Keep your team informed about the current situation, including any challenges or uncertainties. Encourage two-way communication, actively listen to their concerns, and address questions honestly. Transparency builds trust and helps team members feel included and informed.
2. Provide Clarity and Direction: During uncertain times, people seek clarity and direction. As a leader, provide a clear vision, goals, and objectives to guide your team. Communicate the purpose and importance of their work, linking it to the bigger picture. When team members understand their contribution and how it fits into the overall strategy, it boosts morale and provides a sense of meaning and direction.
3. Foster Collaboration and Support: Encourage collaboration and support among team members. Facilitate opportunities for them to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and support one another. Foster a positive team culture where everyone feels valued and respected. Encourage team members to help each other, share expertise, and celebrate collective achievements. Collaboration and support build camaraderie and create a sense of unity in uncertain times.
4. Recognize and Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and appreciate the achievements, big or small, of individuals and the team as a whole. Recognize their efforts and publicly celebrate successes. Regularly provide feedback and recognition, highlighting their strengths and contributions. Positive reinforcement boosts morale, motivates individuals, and encourages continued dedication to the team’s goals.
5. Empower and Delegate: Trust your team members and empower them to take ownership of their work. Delegate tasks and provide autonomy, allowing individuals to make decisions and contribute their unique skills. When team members feel empowered and trusted, it boosts their confidence and morale. Empowerment also fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to achieving success despite uncertainty.
6. Provide Support and Development Opportunities: Offer support to your team members by understanding their needs and providing necessary resources. Be attentive to their professional development goals and provide opportunities for growth and learning. This can include training programs, mentorship, or access to relevant resources. Supporting your team’s growth not only enhances their skills but also shows that you are invested in their long-term success.
7. Lead by Example: As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the team. Demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a positive mindset. Show empathy and understanding, and be available to listen to individual concerns. Model the behavior you want to see from your team and lead with optimism, even in uncertain times. Your positivity and confidence can inspire and motivate others to navigate challenges effectively.
By implementing these strategies, leaders can boost team morale, inspire motivation, and engage their teams during uncertain times. Remember that each team is unique, so adapt these approaches to suit your specific circumstances and the needs of your team members.
Can you share 3 or 4 of the most common mistakes you have seen other businesses or leaders make when faced with a hard decision? What should one keep in mind to avoid that?
Certainly! Here are three common mistakes that businesses or leaders can make when faced with a hard decision, along with suggestions on how to avoid them:
1. Avoiding or Delaying the Decision: One common mistake is avoiding or delaying a difficult decision due to fear, uncertainty, or a desire to maintain the status quo. This can prolong the issue, hinder progress, and create additional challenges. To avoid this, leaders should confront difficult decisions head-on, gather relevant information, seek input from stakeholders, and set a clear timeline for making the decision. Proactive decision-making prevents the situation from escalating and allows for timely resolution.
2. Making Decisions Based Solely on Short-Term Gain: Another mistake is prioritizing short-term benefits or immediate gratification over long-term consequences. When faced with difficult decisions, leaders should consider the broader impact on stakeholders, the organization’s values and goals, and the potential long-term outcomes. Balancing short-term needs with long-term sustainability and success is crucial. It is important to evaluate decisions from multiple perspectives and assess their alignment with the organization’s vision and values.
3. Failure to Communicate Effectively: In times of uncertainty or difficult decisions, communication breakdowns can occur. Leaders may fail to adequately communicate the rationale behind decisions, resulting in misunderstandings, resistance, or decreased morale. To avoid this, leaders should prioritize clear and transparent communication. Clearly articulate the decision-making process, provide context, and explain the reasoning behind the decision. Actively listen to concerns and address them with empathy and respect. Regularly update stakeholders on the progress and outcomes to maintain trust and engagement.
4. Neglecting to Learn from Mistakes: A common mistake is failing to learn from past mistakes or repeating the same decision-making patterns. It is essential to reflect on past decisions, both successful and unsuccessful, and extract valuable lessons. Encourage a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization. Foster an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth and encourage individuals to share their learnings from difficult decisions. By actively learning from mistakes, leaders can refine their decision-making processes and enhance their ability to navigate future challenges.
In summary, to avoid these common mistakes, leaders should proactively confront difficult decisions, consider long-term implications, communicate effectively, and foster a culture of learning and improvement. By addressing challenges head-on, balancing short-term and long-term perspectives, engaging in transparent communication, and embracing a growth mindset, leaders can navigate difficult decisions more effectively and contribute to the long-term success of their organizations.
Here is the primary question of our discussion. Based on your experience and success, what are the five most important things a leader should do when making difficult decisions? Please share a story or an example for each.
Here are five important things a leader should do when making difficult decisions, illustrated with examples based on our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy (GAME) program:
1. Gather Relevant Information and Perspectives: Before making a difficult decision, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible. Conduct research, seek expert opinions, and engage with stakeholders to gain different perspectives. In our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when faced with the challenge of expanding our services, I gathered feedback from clients, industry experts, and team members to understand market demands, identify potential opportunities, and assess the feasibility of expansion.
2. Analyze and Assess Options: Evaluate the available options by analyzing the potential risks, benefits, and long-term implications. Consider how each choice aligns with the goals and values of the organization. For instance, in our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when deciding whether to introduce a new online platform, we conducted a thorough analysis of development costs, user demand, technological requirements, and the potential impact on client satisfaction and revenue. This assessment helped us make an informed decision.
3. Consider the Human Element: Remember the impact of the decision on the people involved. Consider the perspectives and needs of team members, clients, and other stakeholders. For example, in our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when restructuring the team to accommodate growth, I took into account the skills, strengths, and aspirations of individual team members, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption. This consideration of the human element fosters trust, engagement, and a positive work environment.
4. Communicate Clearly and Transparently: Effective communication is paramount when making difficult decisions. Clearly articulate the decision-making process, provide context, and explain the reasoning behind the decision. Engage in transparent and timely communication with stakeholders, addressing concerns and providing updates. In our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when restructuring our pricing strategy, we communicated openly with clients, explaining the reasons behind the changes, highlighting the added value they would receive, and addressing any potential concerns.
5. Take Ownership and Learn from Outcomes: Leaders should take ownership of the decision and its outcomes, whether they are successful or not. Embrace a growth mindset and view each decision as a learning opportunity. Reflect on the results, seek feedback, and identify areas for improvement. In our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program, when launching a new marketing campaign that didn’t achieve the desired results, we took ownership of the outcome, conducted a thorough analysis, learned from our mistakes, and adjusted our strategies for future campaigns.
By following these five steps — gathering information, analyzing options, considering the human element, communicating transparently, and taking ownership — leaders can navigate difficult decisions effectively. The examples from our Goal Accomplishment Made Easy program demonstrate how these principles were applied to achieve successful outcomes and facilitate growth and innovation.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
Certainly! One of my favorite life lesson quotes is from Judge Lynn Toler: “If I waited until I had all my ducks in a row, I’d never get across the street. Sometimes you just have to gather up what you’ve got and make a run for it.”
This quote resonates with me on a personal level because it reminds me of the importance of taking action, even when circumstances are not perfect or when I may feel unprepared. It highlights the notion that waiting for the perfect moment or having everything perfectly lined up can often lead to missed opportunities or stagnation.
In my own life, I have often found myself hesitating to pursue certain goals or aspirations because I felt that I needed more time, more resources, or more knowledge. However, I’ve come to realize that waiting for all the ducks to be in a row can be an endless and fruitless pursuit.
This quote has served as a powerful reminder that sometimes, it’s necessary to gather up what I have, even if it’s not ideal, and take a leap of faith. It encourages me to embrace a mindset of adaptability and resilience, understanding that I can learn and course-correct along the way.
By embracing the idea of making a run for it with what I have, I have been able to pursue new opportunities, start ventures, and achieve personal and professional growth. It has taught me that taking action and being willing to embrace the unknown can lead to remarkable experiences and outcomes that I may not have otherwise encountered.
Ultimately, Judge Lynn Toler’s quote has been a source of inspiration, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the uncertainties of life. It has taught me that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking bold and courageous steps forward, even when all the ducks are not neatly in a row.
When I was at that crossroads 36 months ago and decided not to end my life and to make my life worth living and “go” for every dream I’d ever had, that was the first quote that I saw. And I’ve been running ever since :).
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Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!
Desiree’ Stapleton Of Goal Accomplishment Made Easy On How Leaders Make Difficult Decisions was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.