Over the past month I have personally pondered on the difficult leadership decisions within higher education. People often think leaders are heartless and are rewarded for firing people, demoting people, dissolving units, reorganizing, and many other difficult decisions. I recently pondered on the emotional and mental anguish some leaders must endure to make these difficult decisions. To be an effective leader you must focus on fostering environment where your team can thrive while at the same time sustaining the institution through many crisis situations. There is no way to think you can effectively lead without making a difficult decision. I suggest doing some things that really help you to make the best decision.
Consult with as many parties as you can to ensure you have all the information to make the best decision.
Consider the human capital involved and what can be done to support them through transitions that result from difficult decisions.
Utilize your mentors as a support to guiding you as a leader through those difficult decisions. Outside leaders may bring innovation to your decision. Make sure this discussion is confidential.
Every leader should have a therapist just like every therapist needs a therapist. Therapists help you to process your emotions surrounding your decision making.
Make sure you stay abreast of the types of decisions and strategies other institutions are engaging in. You need this data to help you make the best decision for your institutions. You must be involved in your networks.
In sum, if you are going to be a competent empathetic leader you are going to have to engage in activities that support your leadership development and support you through difficult decision making.
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