When it\u2019s time to make a big decision, do you ask for advice? Many of us do, and our default behavior is to go to our most trusted friends or colleagues.\u00a0 These are the people you already talk to often, and who know you well. There is a reason you are inclined to talk with them. It is easier and less energy-intensive for your brain and theirs because they are familiar.<\/span><\/p>\nBut what if you chose to also seek the input from people you are less inclined to consider? People like that grumpy co-worker who has been through different experiences with the company then you have. Or the person who is always asking questions (being nosy?) but may have a lot of insightful information that could end up helping you.<\/span><\/p>\nWhile you need more energy to listen and engage with these people, you cannot make a well-informed decision by talking only to those with whom you feel most comfortable, or that are inclined to agree with you. That leads to insular thinking, and you may miss key inputs that could help you minimize pitfalls and sway your decision toward an even better outcome.<\/span>Widen your circle of influencers the next time you have a big decision to make and see how much it informs and enlightens you!<\/span>To make good decisions, you must engage with four types of people.<\/span><\/p>\nYour closest colleagues<\/b><\/h4>\n This is the easiest group. You probably share a similar world view and leadership approach. Talk with them and push them to consider other perspectives by saying, \u201cIf this approach wasn\u2019t available, what else should I consider?\u201d This question forces a conversation that expands perspectives.<\/span><\/p>\nYour biggest critics<\/b><\/h4>\n Who are the people who always disagree with you? Seek out their opinions (when you are in an open frame of mind and your energy is high.)<\/span><\/p>\nThose with fringe opinions<\/b><\/h4>\n These people may think in unpopular or very innovative ways. While you may not adopt their perspective fully, you may discover a nugget of truth that should be considered, particularly for long-term decisions.<\/span><\/p>\nThose outside everyone\u2019s circle<\/b><\/h4>\n These are people not in your industry or who live somewhere else (possibly far away.) These factors alone would provide some objective perspective and a powerful learning opportunity.<\/span><\/p>\nWiden your circle of influencers the next time you have a big decision to make and see how much it informs and enlightens you!<\/span><\/p>\n
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