This is the reason it is called leadership development. You learn and develop your sense of leadership through experiences. One approach that I practise is to ask a diverse group of attendees (different years of experience, different job function, different gender, etc) for their feedback after the communication of a difficult decision. Use those feedback to make a better decision.

Facing tough leadership decisions is like steering a ship through a storm. The waves (problems) are unpredictable, and the wind (external pressures) threatens to push you off course. Hope these 03 reflective questions help navigate tough decisions: (1) What emotions am I experiencing, and how are they influencing my decisions? - This helps you recognize emotional triggers and avoid reactive choices. (2) How might this decision impact my team, and what concerns or needs should I consider? -Encourages understanding of others’ perspectives, fostering trust and alignment. (3) Is this decision aligned with my core values and long-term goals? - Ensures you stay focused on what truly matters, avoiding short-term fixes.

Two game-changers for me: daily reflection and active listening. Every evening, I journal 10 minutes about interactions, my reactions, and what I could've done differently. During meetings, I consciously watch body language, pause before responding, and ask clarifying questions. No judgment, just curiosity. Learning to sit with discomfort and truly hear people transformed my leadership. It's not about being perfect, but being present and self-aware.

Take time to identify your emotional triggers and how they influence your decisions. Use tools like journaling or mindfulness apps to track patterns in your emotions.

Practice self-awareness and empathy by reflecting on personal triggers and understanding others' perspectives. Develop active listening skills, embrace feedback, and stay calm under pressure. Emotional intelligence grows with patience, continuous learning, and leading with compassion