As a leader, you make hundreds of decisions daily, both big and small.
Some are quick: Should this email go out today or tomorrow? Should I step into this meeting or let my team handle it?
Others shape the future: Should we invest in this market? Is it time to restructure? How do we navigate this crisis?
Despite all this experience, doubt still creeps in: Did I make the right call? Should I have waited? Should I have asked for more input?
The 3 decision-making styles:
Psychologist Kurt Lewin identified three leadership styles. Most of us have a default, but great leaders adapt.
1. Autocratic – "I’ll make the call."
✅ Best for: Crisis situations, high-stakes decisions, or when expertise is needed.
⚠️ Risk: Overuse can disempower teams.
🔍 Example: A CEO pivoting company #strategy due to market shifts without consulting their leadership team.
2. Democratic – "Let’s decide together."
✅ Best for: Complex problems, innovation, and building trust.
⚠️ Risk: Can slow things down.
🔍 Example: A manager involving their #team in setting department goals.
3. Laissez-Faire – "You decide."
✅ Best for: Experienced teams and creative work.
⚠️ Risk: Can lead to confusion without guidance.
🔍 Example: A director giving their senior team full autonomy.
The No-Regrets #leadership mindset
No matter your style, not every decision will be perfect. What matters is how you respond when things don’t go as planned (and, it WILL happen eventually).
Instead of regret, focus on solutions. What’s the next best move?
Instead of dwelling on mistakes, extract lessons. What will you do differently next time?
Instead of second-guessing, own your decision. Confidence is contagious and inspiring for your team.
The best leaders don’t aim for perfection. Instead, they try to make the best call with the information they have and move forward.