Judgment

We love formulas  - especially those that lead to quick fixes:  "3 tried and true ways to lose 10 pounds in 30 days."  "The surefire way to win at negotiations."  "5 Easy Steps to a Better You."
The self-help aisle is filled with formulas;   infomercials thrive on them.

Yes, it's true - often good instructions lead to even better results.   It is also true that often in life a set formula. . .or even a black and white solution. . .will not achieve the desired results.

There are times . . .often. . .when we need to use that great gift that humans have. . . judgment.  Daily we face difficult decisions:  it is not immediately clear what is the best path and by trying to apply a set formula we will miss the mark.

Formulas are often very easy;    often decisions are not.    There are many factors to be considered that one formula will simply not accommodate.  Our brains are built to make complex decisions, yet often we choose to default to what is easier - and that is a mistake.    Why is it a mistake?  Because often fairness and justice get missed in venda-decisions.  Opportunities often are unrewarded.

Yes, strong judgments require more work.   They take more time (and in an age of "rushing" - we should dedicate ourselves to more thoughtful decision making.)    Critical thinking and inquiry mean that we are looking at difficult decisions from many angles and differing points of view.   While these tools may not necessarily mean we are making decisions that make everyone happy - they do assure that we are making better-informed decisions.

You see if every decision is automated by a formula- then there really isn't a need for human thought and emotional intelligence.  Be assured, that now more than ever, there is a great desire for both.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.