In my previous post, I shared Andy Stanley’s view that the questions we ask reveal our real priorities, and that mastering them can create the focus and emphasis we want. But he then suggested that there is a question that trumps other questions; it is much more revealing. Its benefits?
- It provides instant clarity, lifting one above his or her emotional fog.
- It motivates one to ask, “How would I feel on the other side of my making a decision if I followed the guidance of this question?”
- It exposes or unmasks motives, especially when it makes it is clear I am placing my motives above the larger mission.
- It unmasks me, exposing who I am in this for.
So, what is this magical question?
What would a great leader do?
[Pause, think of a decision you have to make, ask yourself that question, and discern what difference it makes.]
It is not a leader’s job to make great decisions but rather to ensure that great decisions are made. How do you think your decisions would be impacted by asking yourself this? Think it would make a difference?
But, you say you are not in a leadership position – this question has nothing to do with me. Maybe? Let’s tweak it a little and give it a go:
- What would a great mom do?
- What would a great student do?
- What would a great husband do?
- What would a great employee do?
Let us know your thoughts, or even better, share a story of how this caused you to make a better decision, whatever its application.