This week, my ten-year-old son had a conversation with another adult about choices. It was a timely discussion on discerning good choices from bad ones and understanding the impact of our decisions. The topic came up after overhearing a story about someone making a poor choice. My son, with his fresh ten-year-old perspective, pondered the nature of choices, and I found myself reflecting on the parallels for leaders navigating their own decisions in moments of complexity and ambiguity. 

In leadership, particularly when faced with ambiguity, the clarity of our values becomes our most reliable guide. Unlike moments where we have all the facts or a clear path, ambiguity challenges us to lean on something deeper – our guiding principles. When options are uncertain and the stakes high, values anchor us in decisions we can stand behind, no matter the outcome. 

Values provide leaders with a foundation of consistency and integrity. They set a tone for teams and organisations, building trust even in uncertain times. Without this clarity, ambiguity becomes paralysing. With it, we can approach uncertainty with confidence, even if we don’t have all the answers. 

Consider this: when leaders make decisions aligned with their values, they send a powerful message to their teams. It demonstrates that even in unclear circumstances, they will lead with authenticity and integrity. This clarity fosters trust and offers teams a sense of stability amidst change. 

For deliberate leaders, the key is to define, refine, and live by their values. 

Ask yourself: 

• What matters most to me as a leader? 

• How do these values influence the choices I make, big or small? 

• How do I model these values so my team can rely on me when the path ahead is unclear? 

Much like my son’s conversation revealed, the nature of choices is often complex. Yet, as leaders, we have the unique privilege of ensuring our decisions – rooted in clarity of values – make a positive impact. In ambiguity, the goal isn’t to make the “perfect” choice but to make deliberate choices that reflect who we are and what we stand for. 

When clarity of values leads the way, ambiguity feels less daunting, and we become more intentional in our leadership. 

Rita 

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