How to Get People to Accept a Tough Decision

Every leader has to make tough decisions that have consequences for their organizations, their reputation, and their career. When you’re faced with a tough call, consider two features that often make these decisions so difficult: uncertainty and value complexity, or the notion that any choice will compromise your values. To overcome these issues, there are several things you can do. For example, to reduce the uncertainty in a decision, you should challenge any either/or assumptions you’ve made. Ask, “Can we do both?” and “What other options are available?” Then find a low-risk, small-scale way to test your options. To handle value complexity, think about ways that you can help others – especially those who will be harmed – understand why you decided what you did. reduce the harm the decision will cause others. Be as clear as possible about your intention. Explain that you are in a bad situation where any decision you make will harm someone. You don’t wish negative consequences on anyone, but it’s impossible to avoid. When your decisions result in harm for some, frame the harm as a sacrifice they’re making for the greater good. Their willingness to “take one for the team” should count in their favor. Do your best to turn them into heroes.