Your job as a leader is to make decisions.
And not just any decisions – the ones that make or break your success.
The challenge isn't being at your best all the time.
The challenge is being at your best when you make those key decisions.
Peter Thiel put it well: The CEO is largely judged by making the right call about 4 times a year.
The hard part?
Next time you're about to make a big call, run through this checklist.
Just remember, like any good checklist, it should serve as guardrails, not handcuffs.
It’s there to guide you, not hold you back.
These questions are simple, sure.
But simple doesn’t mean easy.
Big shoutout to @shaanvp for this gem:
What is the decision?
What am I feeling?
Extreme fear
Some fear
Neutral or Bored
Some greed
Extreme greed
What is the 1-decisive-reason to do this?
What are the secondary benefits?
If I took all secondary benefits away, would I still make this decision?
No
Maybe
Yes
What triggered the decision?
What alternatives did I consider:
A
B
C
Is this a reversible decision?
What makes me think this is the right move?
What makes me think this might be the wrong move?
Upside if right:
Downside if wrong:
What follow-up is important to make this decision more successful?
When and how will I know if this was a success?
Walk through the scenario. What are the next 5 things to happen after you do this?
One of the most underrated questions here is: "What is my body feeling?"
It's crazy how quickly your body chemistry can mess with your logic when emotions run high.
But if you tune into your body's signals, it’s a game-changer.
I've added three more questions for myself:
What data supports this decision?
How might I view this decision 5 years from now?
Would delaying this decision give me more clarity?
Here’s the real eye-opener.
A lot of decisions don’t seem like a big deal in the moment.
But looking back, they’re often the ones that shaped your path the most.
So next time you’re at a crossroads, don’t rush.
Ask the right questions.
Trust the process.
And make the best damn decision you can.
PS. Do you struggle to set yourself apart from your competitors? Does your tone of voice lack a little personality? Either way, get in touch and I’ll help you become remarkable. Or get more communication advice that doesn't suck here.
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