According to Proverbs 28.14, hard-headedness is problematic. Conversely, a good character exhibits carefulness in approaching decisions.
The Precept Explained
Where’s the point at which I stop being appropriately cautious?
As such, where do I become unreasonably fearful? Hence, to the point of inaction?
Or, how can I effectively address risks without being stubbornly reckless?
Fact is, there are no easy answers to these questions. Because, unfortunately, we’re better at seeing neurotic behavior in others than in naming our own fears!
Appropriately Cautious
Actually, the word used in Proverbs 28.14 for “fear” is used to indicate anxiety. Especially, during times of distress. For example, see Proverbs 1.26, 1.27, and 1.33, as well as 3.25.
However, here in Proverbs 28.14, it indicates satisfaction. Therefore, it likely means being appropriately cautious.
Moreover, the contrast in Proverbs 28.14 is between carefulness and stubbornness. In other words, my hard-headedness causes problems, Proverbs 29.1.
Conversely, it’s satisfying when I’m careful in making decisions because of improved outcomes.
Moving Forward
So, back to the original question: How do I avoid unreasonable fear?
First, don’t be stubborn. Instead, listen to wise counsel, Proverbs 11.14. Second, ditch the pride, Proverbs 3.34 and 8.13.
In short, impactful leaders are careful. But, they’re not self-consumed! Or, arrogant! And, they’re not foolishly overconfident, Proverbs 28.26.
Why? Because impactful leaders realize that good character exhibits carefulness.
The foolishly overconfident place excessive trust in their poor character, but a precept-driven life avoids problems. Proverbs 28.26 paraphrase
Outcomes of Good Character
Actually, the Proverbs and Ecclesiastes have much to say about a wise character. As such, the phrase that’s often used is “wise hearted.”
Thus, the diagram that follows lists some key traits of being wise hearted, which produces sound decisions.
Basically, from this series of posts on character, we learn that good character:
1). Exhibits carefulness
5). Makes wise choices, and
So, be that leader!
Leadership Insight
Truth is, leaders who are frozen by inaction don’t remain leaders very long.
Instead, impactful leaders find a way forward in the face of challenge. To do so, they balance careful analysis and timely advice.
Next, impactful leaders push forward in the face of imperfect and incomplete information. In so doing, they address measurable risks. Then, they act accordingly.
Ok, I get it. This is really hard. But, don’t forget why you were placed into a leadership role!
You became a leader with the expectation that you would make decisions!
So, regardless of the outcome, don’t be overconfident – “It turned out great, I’m brilliant”.
Also, don’t fall into the over-analysis trap.
Why? Because at neither of these extremes am I building experiential insights that make me a more impactful leader.
Apply This Today!
Now, hard-headedness ignores or misinterprets warning signs. So, don’t be that leader!
Worse yet, neurotic fear leads to leadership inaction. And, it brings organizational decay. So, don’t be that leader!
Impactful leaders are appropriately cautious because they’ve learned balance. Consequently, they balance the rewards of decisiveness against the risks of inaction. So, be that leader!
Thanks for visiting. If you have any questions or comments about these posts, please contact me: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com