How To Become A Better Decision Maker

Decisions are a part of all of our lives. Even our furry companions make decisions. I know Lok, my Vizsla, does.

He can choose to listen to my commands. He can choose to obey and be rewarded. He can also choose whether to play, eat, sleep, etc…

Yet, while my dog can make a decision, I wouldn’t want him to lead me. I know you feel the same. You love your pet but you wouldn’t trust his decision making compacity to lead you, your family, or your organization.

Man standing at a path split by a giant tree

Photo by Caleb Jones

If we don’t want to be led by poor decision makers, it would serve to reason we don’t want to make bad decisions either. So, what can you do to become a better decision maker?

Your Voice Connects People

Every leader has a voice. Each voice is unique. That’s what makes it such a crying shame when you and other leaders fail to speak up.

You have a unique way of communicating your message. The way you share and the way you tell stories, you do in such a way that no one can copy you.

Stagehand in a Metallica shirt connecting with audience

Photo by Satria Aditya

And it’s awesome. It’s unique. It’s you!

Your Voice Connects People

More than having a unique voice, your voice does something no one else can. Your voice will connect people to your message. This comes from your unique perspective and communication style.

You might communicate loud and brash. Or you might be meek and mild. Still, you could fall somewhere in-between.

Wherever you fall in your communication style, someone connects with the way you communicate. This is powerful stuff.

Quotes And Leadership Lessons From Aladdin

A Reel Leadership Article

I can show you the world Shining, shimmering splendid Tell me, princess, now when did You last let your heart decide? These lyrics defined a generation much like “Do you want to build a snowman? Or ride our bike around the halls? I think some company is overdue I’ve started talking to The pictures on the walls!” from Frozen has defined the current generation for many young people.

I remember when the animated version of Aladdin was released in 1992. The animation was stunning. The story was engaging. And the music was top notch.

Aladdin, Jasmine, and Genie from live action Aladdin

There were few people who didn’t fall in love with Aladdin at this time. Now, it’s time for a whole new generation to fall in love with the Aladdin story in a whole new way.

Think Big! Treating Your Small Business Like One Greater In Stature

This is a contributed post to JMLalonde.com. For more information on contributing a post, please see our contributing policies.

As far as the art of self-development is concerned, you won’t learn more than when you run a business. Regardless of how prepared you are, there are things that will always take you by surprise. But regardless of the stature of the business, even if you’re running a small one out of your home, it’s important that you get it into your head at the outset that your business is a grand entity.

Man on smartphone with a newspaper and MacBook pro nearby

Image by rawpixel from Pixabay

This will prepare you for upscaling the company, but also giving yourself the motivation to develop yourself further. And when it comes to treating your small business like a big one, are there any things that we can get in place?

Fixing The Formalities

The Damage To Your Reputation From Not Speaking Up

The Speak Up! Series

By not speaking up, you’re sending a crystal clear message to those you’re leading and those you’re influencing. You’re sending a message that your voice doesn’t matter.

This may seem crazy to you but it is true. Your silence is screaming at those waiting to listen to you. They desire to hear from you and learn from you.

Man with white and black on his face holding a finger in front of his lips

Photo by Ricardo Mancia

But, when all you do is stay silent, your reputation can be irreparably damaged.

Silence Says Something

When you stay silent, you’re sending a message. You’re saying you don’t believe in what you say. You say you’re unsure you have something of value to contribute. Or maybe you’re saying you don’t know what you’re doing.

Regardless of what message you’re sending when you stay silent, you’re sending a message. A message people are receiving and playing over and over in their minds.