One of the hallmarks of entrepreneurial and leader behavior is a bias toward action. But this can tip over into impulsiveness if not carefully managed. How can we keep this in check?
The truth is, we’re all somewhat hardwired for impulsiveness. Remember, our brains still very much operate in caveman style: bursts of activity followed by long stretches of rest, store up sustenance when available since you never know when it will be again, and determine quickly if the rustling bushes are a threat.
This behavior is deeply, deeply ingrained in the way our brains operate, almost automatically.
Every day I see this behavior magnified in very successful business owners and leaders…and, of course, in the mirror! Leaders act. Period. They see opportunities, needs, or problems, and they solve them.
But all too often they act without a clear understanding of purpose, a vision of success, some basic operational ground rules, and a sequencing of actions that move those items forward.
The solution is not easy, but it’s to insert a pause. Take a breath, assess the situation, ask “Is what I’m about to do going to make this situation better or worse?”
Leaders act. Effective leaders make sure their actions improve their positioning.
But taking a pause is really part of a broader approach to life. Truly effective leaders constantly scan the horizon. They choose proactive behavior. They anticipate ways things can go right or wrong and look at how to position themselves to capitalize on good opportunities and avoid failures. And they constantly reinforce their sense of purpose and their vision of success.
When we regularly reinforce a mentality that seeks the ultimate outcomes over short-term wins, we gradually diminish our innate impulsiveness.
The real training is not in the reactive moment, it’s in the proactive behavior at all the other times.
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