Too often, leaders and followers live in the land of “what if” and not what really is. They ponder how it would be if things were different. What if all the votes were there for a prior decision? How could the plans have been revised to be more accommodating? They consider what would happen if they could start over. Sometimes, they ask about if they could change the scenario and lead without encumbrances.
But, do not be confused. The best leaders operate in the world of what is happening now. They learn over time and with commitment to do so. Many can simply accept the unknown and go from there without a glitch. Others need to have various considerations to ponder alternatives.
Thus, it would be only reasonable to make sure leaders know the significance of leading with ambiguity. This is one of the trademarks of a solid leader. Being able to lead and make decisions without speculating about yesterday, tomorrow, or the unknown is paramount.
The old adage goes that you do not want to borrow trouble for tomorrow. This holds true for leaders. Rather than pondering the “what if” factor leaders should address the “what is known” factors in the present.
At the end of the day, this is what will yield more effective leadership.
Dawn McCoy
Author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
