Make decisions easier with this simple principle
I’ve just returned from a 2 week snowboarding trip to the USA, I know what you’re thinking: “Are you nuts? Going away so early into the year?!”
I wondered the same thing myself on multiple occasions, particularly the rather stressful week prior to departure!
And it got me thinking about decision making: when we made the decision to ski (February 2023), my calendar was free 12 months away. What a surprise...
We loved the trip, but like doing anything, or even nothing, it had consequences… so I’d like to touch on decision-making today.
Josh
Values-based decision-making
This framework is exactly what it says on the tin: making key decisions through the lens of your values. Not just being aware of them as you decide, but being very conscious and present to ensure the decision is fully aligned (and not in conflict) with your values.
Why I like this approach: Nothing trumps your personal values, and every decision in business should be congruent to your stated values. So it’s kind of top-down. And, it’s actually very simple.
The starting point is to get super clear on your values - as they are today. Our values change over time, in the long term quite markedly, however if asked we tend to believe they’re constant. As Disney said, “It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.''
Real and aspirational values creation involves deep reflection or dialogue within our teams. If yours could do with a refresh, some questions that may be helpful:
- What moments define you? When do you feel most alive?
- What makes you feel fulfilled? In contrast, what drains your life force?
- What do we stand for? What would we never say or do?
- Who do we admire? What characteristics and traits do they have?
- What impact do we want to have (beyond the P+L)?
Once these values are in clear view, why not try weaving them into the fabric of your decision-making processes. This could mean setting up checks and balances that ensure every major decision passes the "values test" or creating a culture where team members feel empowered to speak up when a proposed direction seems at odds with your stated values.
And here's the kicker: values-based decision-making isn't just a moral compass; it's a strategic advantage. Today’s world is one where consumers and employees are increasingly aligning with brands and companies that reflect their own values, being clear and consistent about yours can set you apart. It's about building a brand that resonates, a culture that attracts, and a legacy that endures.
So, let's not just make decisions; let's make decisions that truly matter - to us, to our stakeholders, and to the wider world we're a part of.
"Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your values, your values become your destiny."
– Mahatma Gandhi
Values-based decision-making in action
Are you familiar with Patagonia? The brand, not the region 😉
Founded on very solid values and principles, Yvon Chouinard set out to create a business that was very ethical in decision-making, considering the environment and sustainability, people and quality.
Then, 49 years after founding the business, he placed 98% of the company into a business purpose trust - “we’re now owned by the planet”. In doing so he made a huge stance for his personal and company values. Plus he relinquished his billionaire status. ‘Let My People Go Surfing’ is a great read if you’re interested.
