Five Terrible Reasons
We’ve never done it that way before.
It might not work.
I’m not 100% sure what I’m doing.
Some people aren’t going to like it.
I’m afraid.
Five terrible reasons not to try something new.
Yet, I’ve heard all of them. And, if I’m being completely transparent, I’ve probably used a few of them myself at times – especially when I know I’ll have to lead out to try them.
The reality is, if you’re going to lead, you’re going to have to get comfortable with some uncertainty.
You won’t always know how something will turn out. You won’t have every answer before you begin. And you certainly won’t have everyone cheering you on.
Some things you try won’t work. That’s almost guaranteed.
But you’ll learn something in the process.
And sometimes what you learn from what didn’t work will help you discover what eventually does.
Of course, I’m not advocating reckless decisions. Do your homework. Seek wise counsel. Consider the risks. Make the best decision you can with the information you have.
But don’t confuse being cautious with being unwilling to try.
I’ve learned that progress seldom comes from waiting until every question is answered and every fear is removed. Sometimes you simply have to take the next step and figure out a few things along the way.
And here’s something else I’ve learned.
The longer you wait for perfect conditions, the easier it becomes to convince yourself not to do anything at all.
Leader, don’t let the possibility of failure keep you from the opportunity to make a difference. You may not be ready for everything that comes next. But you might be more ready than you think.
Try something.
