Imagine a horse race where all the runners and riders are raring to go, itching to get started but uncertain which way to go. In this race, there is no clear winning post, nor even a rail to guide them round the course. Nobody is certain in which direction to race.
Then suddenly, one rider makes a strong and visible move in one direction, riding hard, with certainty. The others still can’t see which way to go, but worried about losing out, they start chasing the certain one, believing they must know where the finishing line is.
Soon, the whole field is off, chasing in the same direction, wanting to beat the others to the winning post. And as they go, their belief, confidence and creativity creates the reality they are all chasing.
Thus, certainty is created by the certain.
How certain are you?
Nobody follows the uncertain, because they don’t know where they are going.
While you may not know where to go, looking uncertain is a leadership faux pas.
Deciding to follow a given path yet displaying uncertainty will likely damage confidence and make it less likely that your chosen path will yield the winning post.
Of course, arrogant naivety is the other side of this tricky little coin. A delicate dilemma, that as a leader you have to balance and decide.
Clear decision processes, reliable information, canvassed views, prophetic scenarios, all play a role in creating the certainty, and the point at which you need to flip.
Once you’ve decided, back it to the hilt and run hard for the finishing line.
Don’t fear the competition that starts to follow your lead, encourage it. The more people who have committed, the more it will come true.
All who follow will lend their weight and influence to making sure it is the right direction. Use your first mover advantage boldly, and focus on staying ahead of the field.
Strong leaders provide the certainty for others to follow.
Insights Related to Certainty
- The Psychological Path of an Influencing Goal
- Seeing What You Expect to See
- Be Careful What You Wish For
The Gautrey Influence Blog
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