Here’s a thought that’s been sticking with me: great leaders aren’t just good at making decisions — they’re exceptional at evaluating them. Too often, we make decisions, put plans in motion, and forget to ask the critical question: “Is this still working?”
Take the example of a report that’s been in place for decades. Everyone is still doing it because it’s always been done that way. But when someone finally asked, “Does it still serve us?” the answer wasn’t as clear-cut as expected. Some didn’t find it useful at all, and others had grown disillusioned by the outdated data. The key takeaway? Just because something worked in the past doesn’t mean it continues to add value today.
This ties directly into what we’ve talked about before — the power of intentional leadership.
In Empowerment Through Collaboration: Shifting from Directives to Shared Goals, we explored how rigid directives can stifle progress, while shared goals create space for flexibility. But shared goals only work when we revisit them regularly to ensure they still align with our evolving needs.
Similarly, in Generational Evolution: The Tension Between Recognition and Growth, we highlighted how clinging to outdated mindsets can prevent teams from thriving.
And if you haven’t been to my semi-annual TED Talk (just kidding) on the stop-start-keep method, consider this your invitation.
Leadership requires adaptability, and that starts with a willingness to question long-standing assumptions.
This is where true leadership shines. It’s not enough to make decisions; the real power lies in assessing whether those decisions are still serving their intended purpose. When leaders practice ongoing evaluation, they demonstrate a level of self-awareness and humility that builds trust within their teams. It fosters an environment where people feel safe to question, innovate, and refine processes — without fear of disrupting the status quo.
So here’s the challenge: Take a look at the systems, habits, or routines you’ve accepted as fixed. Ask yourself (and your team): Is this still working? Because sometimes, the most powerful leadership move isn’t making a new decision — it’s re-evaluating an old one.
Photo by Ante Hamersmit on Unsplash
