Every weekend, the family goes out to dinner. We typically choose from six to right different restaurants. Like all good husbands, when my wife asks where I’d like to eat, I respond with “I don’t care” or “you choose.”
This answer rarely suffices. In fact, it usually draws a scowl. So I then think about each menu, location and environment in my mind, trying to identify which one fits my current mood.
Typically, nothing jumps out and often we jump in the car without a destination and make our choice based on the amount of cars in the parking lot.
This sort of ambiguity is completely acceptable on a Saturday night.
However, uncertainty in business can have significant consequences.
Have you ever waffled for months before firing a bad employee? What about that new product/service that you’ve been thinking about offering for years?
Most people sit on the fence because they are afraid of making the wrong decision. They wonder, “What if you can’t replace that employee or the advertising campaign fails?”
You might end up saving a few dollars in your marketing budget, but there’s a problem with this type of thinking. It will keep you from making any real progress in your business.
Successful people share a common characteristic. They take risks and make quick decisions.
Sometimes, these decisions end up being wrong. However, the most important benefit of taking risks isn’t always making the right decision.
The most valuable part of getting off the fence and making a quick decision is the lesson you learn.
Stop waffling and get moving.