“Think before you respond” is common advice. But, it’s hard to do! However, Proverbs offers advice to help us think faster and slower. Thus, to respond more diplomatically.
The Precept Explained
To change my behavior I must improve the quality of my decisions.
In turn, improved decisions are fueled by clearer thinking.
So far, so good.
But, who has time for thinking and reflecting?
Well, learning to behave wisely by being precept-driven is a worthy life goal, according to Proverbs 1.3: “To receive the instruction of wisdom…”
Furthermore, wise behavior is rooted in good judgment, also discussed in Proverbs 1.3. Hence, better decisions.
It follows that better decisions are grounded in clear thinking, Proverbs 1.4.
Therefore, Think – Decide – Act is an ancient model for leadership action.
Now, Proverbs 1.4 and Proverbs 8.12 instruct us to balance our thinking so that we think faster and slower!
Improved Decision Making
Basically, effective decisions are the result of two factors.
First, the ability to think on my feet, to be subtle, and discerning, Proverbs 1.4 and 8.5. In turn, discernment enables me to identify what is and isn’t true because I’m sensitive to the intentions of others.
More importantly, these critical thinking skills should be accompanied by careful listening and by keen observation.
Second, the ability to think deeply. That is, to reflect and thus build experiential insight, Proverbs 2.11. However, deep thoughtfulness must be grounded in a just character to control the direction of my thinking.
So, just like a precept-driven character balances knowing and doing, it’s also able to think faster and slower!
What’s the outcome? Well, for one, better quality decisions and more discrete choices.
Therefore, I build discretion in words and actions as a result of deep thoughtfulness. Moreover, that basic precept is explored several times in Proverbs, including Proverbs 1.4, 2.11, 3.21 and 5.2.
As it turns out, Think – Decide – Act demands self-control so I pause before responding. For example, if simply to say “let me get back to you on that.”
Now, be honest. How often have you wished for more discretion after ill-timed words or actions? For me, a whole bunch of times!
Leadership Insight
Arguably, Think – Decide – Act isn’t a break-through concept.
Actually, this decision model tends to be associated with early-career advice, as noted in Proverbs 1.4 “young person…”
Think – Decide – Act
Think Faster and Slower
But, what’s the payoff for a leader who develops these two traits of subtilty and deep thoughtfulness? For starters, here’s a list:
1). Build experiential insight, Proverbs 2.11, to better deal with those who are difficult or dishonest.
2). Develop interpersonal discretion so I don’t make destructive choices, Proverbs 5.2.
3). Help cover my shallow-mindedness, Proverbs 1.4.
4). Side-step foolish overconfidence, at any age, Proverbs 8.5, by building out discernment.
Thankfully, a growth-oriented leader can build these professional competencies. And, avoids the deep challenges in the prior list.
Then, that leader frees-up significant time in his or her schedule to think strategically. Also, to act decisively.
Apply This Today!
Impactful leaders don’t take the bait of those who are purposefully confrontational because they’ve learned to think faster and slower. Be that leader!
Look, you know those who are masters at baiting and changing the subject in an attempt to avoid taking responsibility. Don’t chase that stick! Instead, think before you go into a meeting with them!
An impactful leader guards his/her character from inappropriate or abusive relationships that produce no good outcomes.
Leaders who are clear thinkers reduce their chances of becoming overconfident, thus taking unnecessary or ill-timed risks.
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