Leaders sometimes make decisions they know are wrong. Even though their experience, values, and instincts confirm the decision is exceedingly bad, they go ahead and make it anyway. They talk themselves into the idea that they are doing the right thing, all the while knowing they aren’t. They willfully commit to a decision that will likely blow up and potentially destroy their credibility. Why would leaders, even good ones, make such a choice?
I have fallen into this trap, and it’s ugly. It’s not just loyalty, though. Sometimes faith in an individual is in the balance, which can look like loyalty but is somewhat different. A leader might place too much faith in an individual’s ability to reach their potential. It’s a sort of loyalty, and a wise leader will give full faith while hedging their bets. Trust but verify.
I have fallen into this trap, and it’s ugly. It’s not just loyalty, though. Sometimes faith in an individual is in the balance, which can look like loyalty but is somewhat different. A leader might place too much faith in an individual’s ability to reach their potential. It’s a sort of loyalty, and a wise leader will give full faith while hedging their bets. Trust but verify.
Good word, Jim.