The secret of top leaders: Deciding without all the answers (And why it works!)

Uncertainty freaks people out. It’s why we overplan holidays, why some managers micromanage, and why “paralysis by analysis” is a thing. But here’s the kicker—great decision-makers don’t eliminate uncertainty. They get comfortable with it.

A 2024 MIT Sloan study, Seizing Uncertainty, found that leaders who excel at decision-making don’t have magic crystal balls. They just approach decisions differently—using a mix of head, heart and network to make smarter choices without needing absolute certainty.

Good results don’t come out from obvious reflections. Sometimes, they are products of good decisions.

✅Head: Think, but don’t overthink

Good decision-makers analyze data, yes, but they don’t get stuck in “what ifs.” They gather what they can, identify patterns, and move forward—understanding that no decision comes with a 100% guarantee.

❤️Heart: Trust your gut (but not blindly)

Your instincts are shaped by experience. The best leaders don’t ignore them; they use them to guide decision-making when data is incomplete. But here’s the trick—they also challenge their gut reactions to make sure they’re not just running on bias or fear.

👥Network: Use other brains

Great leaders don’t go it alone. They ask, listen, and stress-test their ideas with a diverse set of voices. They know that insight doesn’t just come from experience—it comes from perspective.

So, if you’re waiting for certainty before making a big decision, stop. It’s never coming. Decide, adapt, and move forward. The best decision-makers don’t wait for the fog to clear—they learn to walk through it.

👉 What’s your favourite tip when you get stuck to help you make a decision? Drop me a comment.

#CalmestPersonWins #EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #CrisPopp