What This Van Gogh Painting Could Teach You About Making Smart Decisions
The next time you're in a sticky business situation, remember to do this.
Last week, researchers revealed they have discovered a previously unknown self-portrait of Vincent van Gogh painted on the back of a canvas he repurposed for another painting. (Apparently, Vincent was on a budget.) If you haven’t seen it, you can check it out here.
This self-portrait shows Van Gogh with a beard and hat and his left ear still attached (a fact that helped to date the painting). It reminds me of how often in life - and business - things aren’t exactly what they appear. It’s a lesson worth remembering the next time you’re faced with a challenge and are tempted to react too quickly. Patience, as business writer John Boitnott points out, is more than just a virtue. It also keeps you from making hasty business decisions.
Ask yourself: Is this my ego talking?
Before you react — or overreact — to a dicey business situation, it’s a good idea to take a moment and collect as much information as you can before you make a decision you can’t undo or say something you wish you hadn’t. Here are a few steps to take before you react next time:
Buy some time. If you can put off making a decision or giving a response for a few minutes, you’ll be more likely to give a thoughtful response. Sometimes, just letting the dust settle is the best way to handle a sticky situation.
Investigate — Ask all involved parties — including your employees, customers or business partners — to explain the situation clearly to you. Make sure you’ve got all sides of the story.
Identify your end game. Knowing the outcome you want will inform how you respond.
Ask yourself: Is this my ego talking? Sometimes we say or do things because of the way they make us feel rather than because they are the right thing for our business. Be sure you’re staying true to your business goals and not your own feelings.
Do nothing. Sometimes no decision is the best decision and letting things work themselves out is a viable option. Just be sure you’re not letting your team down if you decide not to weigh in.