Leadership Paradox #3: Decisive vs. Flexible
- Ralph Cochrane
- Aug 19
- 1 min read
Sometimes the strongest decision is changing your mind.
I was coaching a project director in the construction sector—let’s call her Anita. She was sharp, respected, and known for being decisive. When a major equipment upgrade came up, she approved the bid quickly. Too quickly, as it turned out.
A few days later, her team brought her new data: supply delays, a more cost-effective vendor, and long-term compatibility issues. The smart move? Pull the plug and reassess.
But Anita hesitated. “If I reverse course now, I’ll look unsure.”
We talked through it. And to her credit, she went back to her team and said, “I made the best call I could with the info I had—but now I have better info.”
They didn’t lose respect. They gained it.
Being decisive doesn’t mean being inflexible. The best leaders make clear calls—but they’re never too proud to pivot when the ground shifts.
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