How do you demonstrate sound judgement?
Here are a few practices that have helped me over the years:
- Pause before responding. If you’re angry, write the email—but don’t send it. When possible, give yourself 48 hours before making significant decisions or responses.
- Be a lifelong student. Read, attend conferences, study history—including your own—and continually seek to learn.
- Listen to opposing viewpoints. Be careful of “biased listening”—only looking for information that supports a conclusion you’ve already reached.
- Build a personal board of directors. Surround yourself with people whose wisdom, experience, and skillsets complement your own.
- Own your mistakes. Saying “I’m sorry” and asking for forgiveness takes humility and builds trust.
- Stay grounded. For me, prayer and time in God’s Word have been foundational to making wise decisions and maintaining perspective.
Ultimately, sound judgment isn’t about always getting it right. It’s about developing the humility, discipline, and perspective to make better decisions—and to learn when we get them wrong.
What would you add to this list? How have you developed sound judgment over the years?
How can I help you on your leadership journey?
