When I think about leadership, one thing that always stands out to me is decision-making. Every choice I make, big or small, can set the direction for my team and shape the work we do together. But let’s be honest—making decisions isn’t always easy, especially when there’s pressure to get it right. Over time, though, I’ve picked up a few approaches that help me make decisions with more clarity and confidence.

Finding a Method That Works

One of the best things I’ve learned is to have some kind of method for making decisions. Sometimes, it’s about analyzing the pros and cons—looking at the data, thinking through possible outcomes. Other times, it’s about trusting my gut, especially if I’ve been in similar situations before. By mixing a logical approach with intuition, I’ve found that I can make choices that feel right and are backed by reason. It helps to ask myself things like, “Does this fit with our values?” or “What’s the potential impact?” It’s a simple way to stay on track.

Adapting When Things Don’t Go as Planned

One big lesson I’ve learned is that not every decision will play out exactly as expected, and that’s okay. In fact, being able to adjust when things go off-course has been just as important as the decision itself. If something isn’t working, I remind myself that it’s okay to pivot. Staying flexible keeps things moving forward and allows me to respond to new information as it comes.

The Power of Getting Input

Over time, I’ve realized that leadership isn’t about having all the answers on my own. Some of the best decisions I’ve made came from asking my team for their perspectives. This process of listening not only leads to better choices but also builds trust. People appreciate being heard, and I’ve found that they often notice things I might have missed. It’s a win-win—stronger decisions and a more connected team.

Acting with Confidence

After weighing the options and hearing from others, there comes a point where I just need to act. Making a decision, even if it’s not perfect, usually beats not making one at all. Once I’ve committed, I keep an eye on how things are going and make adjustments if needed. But I’ve learned to trust the process—being decisive and moving forward has its own kind of power.

For me, mastering decision-making is about creating a system that feels natural, staying flexible, listening to my team, and acting with confidence. Each choice is a chance to learn, grow, and become a better leader. The goal isn’t just to make the perfect choice every time—it’s to keep learning and leading with intention.