How can you handle decisions that do not align with organizational objectives?

1 Identify the source of misalignment

The first step is to understand why your decision does not align with your organizational objectives. Is it because of a lack of information, a different perspective, a hidden agenda, or a moral issue? By identifying the source of misalignment, you can clarify your own motives, assumptions, and values, and communicate them effectively to others.

2 Assess the impact and risks

The next step is to evaluate the potential impact and risks of your decision on yourself, your team, your organization, and your stakeholders. How will your decision affect the achievement of your goals, the quality of your work, the trust of your colleagues, and the satisfaction of your customers? What are the possible consequences, both positive and negative, of your decision? How can you mitigate the risks and maximize the benefits?

3 Seek feedback and support

The third step is to seek feedback and support from relevant people who can help you make a better decision or cope with the challenges. These can include your peers, mentors, managers, experts, or coaches. By seeking feedback and support, you can gain new insights, perspectives, and ideas, as well as validate your reasoning, assumptions, and values. You can also build rapport, trust, and collaboration with others who share your vision or challenge your views.

4 Communicate your decision clearly and respectfully

The fourth step is to communicate your decision clearly and respectfully to those who need to know or are affected by it. You should explain the rationale, evidence, and benefits of your decision, as well as acknowledge the limitations, trade-offs, and drawbacks. You should also address any concerns, objections, or questions that may arise, and listen to feedback and suggestions. By communicating your decision clearly and respectfully, you can demonstrate your leadership, accountability, and professionalism.

5 Monitor and evaluate your decision

The fifth step is to monitor and evaluate your decision and its outcomes over time. You should track the progress, results, and feedback of your decision, and compare them with your expectations, objectives, and standards. You should also reflect on your decision-making process, and identify what worked well, what did not work well, and what can be improved. By monitoring and evaluating your decision, you can learn from your experience, celebrate your achievements, and address any issues or gaps.

6 Be flexible and adaptable

The sixth step is to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, new information, or feedback that may require you to revise or modify your decision. You should be open-minded, curious, and willing to learn from others and from your own mistakes. You should also be prepared to explain and justify any changes or adjustments to your decision, and to implement them effectively and efficiently. By being flexible and adaptable, you can show your resilience, creativity, and innovation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?