Often times, leaders get caught in the tyranny of the immediate, act hastily, and find themselves cleaning up the mess.  This “Ready – Fire – Aim” approach does no one any good.  My advice, even when up against impossible deadlines, pray and think before you act.

Feelings are immediate and we often act them out (badly).  Thought translates those feelings into more rational and appropriate behavior.  Prayer slows us down enough for God to work in us.  So pray and think before you act.  Here’s one process that might help.

Pray and Think before you act…Do I have all the information?

Pray and Think before you act…What are the long-term implications?

Pray and Think before you act…Who else needs to be in this discussion?

Pray and Think before you act…Will my decision reduce organizational anxiety?

Pray and Think before you act…Am I making the best decision based on all that I know?

Pray and Think before you act!

That’s what I think…what about you???