Making hard decisions as a Peoples Leader - The Weight of the Crown

 Leadership isn't all sunshine and rainbows. It's about inspiring, motivating, and guiding while learning, yes, but it's also about making tough calls when the stakes are high. As a people leader, these decisions often impact the lives and livelihoods of teams and team members, making them even more challenging.

The reality is - sometimes, there's no easy answer, no perfect solution that leaves everyone happy. But that doesn't absolve us from making a choice. So how to navigate these murky waters?

1. Gather the Information:
Don't rush in blind. Before making any major decision, gather all the necessary information. Talk to the team, analyse data, consider the long-term implications. The more informed we are, the better equipped we'll be to make the right call.

2. Embrace the Discomfort:
Making hard decisions is rarely comfortable. It might involve delivering bad news, disappointing someone, or facing backlash. Embrace the discomfort. Acknowledge that it's part of the job and focus on the bigger picture.

3. Be Transparent and Communicate Clearly:
Once the decision is made, communicate it clearly and transparently to the team. Explain the rationale behind it, address concerns, and be open to feedback. Even if they don't agree with the decision, people appreciate honesty and transparency.

4. Own Your Choices:
Don't shy away from responsibility. Own the decisions we make, both the good and the bad. If things don't go as planned, be accountable and learn from the experience. This builds trust and credibility with the team.

5. Prioritise Your People:
While tough decisions may sometimes have negative consequences, always prioritise the well-being of the team and team members. Consider the impact on their morale, their development, and their livelihoods. Show empathy and support them through the process.

6. Don't be Afraid to Seek Advice:
When making tough decisions we don't have to go it alone. Seek advice from mentors, peers, or other leaders who have faced similar situations who can provide you an unbiased advice. A fresh perspective can offer valuable insights and help you make more informed decisions.

Final word, Leadership is a journey, not a destination.
It's about constantly learning, adapting, and growing. Making hard decisions are an inevitable part of that journey. Embrace the challenge, learn from your experiences, and strive to be the best leaders we can be.