The Truth About Taking Action by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

Indecisiveness can cripple a business leader. Often, we find ourselves doing nothing simply because we are unsure of the right action and are fearful of making the wrong choice. Sometimes, we find ourselves particularly fearful of taking action after having made a decision we now regret.

It’s important to remember, however, that delaying action can be just as bad, or even worse than making the wrong decision. When we fail to make decisions, we pass up opportunities, and we allow something, or someone, to control our business inadvertently. Here are five things you need to know about taking action.

1. It is stressful. Don’t wait for making hard decisions to get easy. That generally doesn’t happen. Occasionally, you will find that delaying a decision will allow circumstances to play out and make the decision easier. However, more often than not, delaying the decision only delays the stress; it doesn’t eliminate it.
2. Taking action is empowering. Making a decision and moving forward makes you feel in control of your situation and your business. Sometimes, you will make the wrong decision. But as long as you learn from those decisions and take corrective action, you are still exercising control.
3. The more you take action, the easier it becomes. Each time you make the right decision and move your business forward, you will gain confidence. This confidence fuels you for the next hard decision. Even when you fail, you will gain knowledge and experience that will help you make a better decision next time.
4. It’s ok to ask for help. Seeking counsel doesn’t make you weak; it makes you wise. Turn to mentors and trusted advisors to help you make the best decisions rather than always trying to go it on your own.
5. You will gain respect. Peers and employees have more respect for leaders who aren’t afraid to take action, even when there is risk involved.

Everyone has fear when it comes to making hard decisions about important matters. Over time, the decisions may not get any easier, but your skill and confidence in making them can definitely grow, leading to greater and greater strides forward for both you and your business.