It has been a long time and yet I still remember. It is an odd memory. I was in a management meeting with my team. It was as if the air was crisp and everything was clear. I knew that there was one sitting at the table that did not agree with anything we were saying. While others believed, wondered, and doubted, there was one that did not believe. His words, actions, and body language said that he did not want to ever believe. At the time, I wondered, reflected, and did nothing.
I have said since that I wished I had transferred or fired him then. It would have helped everyone, including the individual.
Sadly, years later, I had a member of the management team that everyone told me did not fit. I thought it was simply personalities. I was sure that I could help bridge the gap. I thought he believed. I thought he understood the vision. My pride blinded me to what others could see. They knew that his words, actions, and body language said that he was not ever going to fit in with the team.
Taking tough decision is rarely easy or automatic. I always find myself struggling and yet these two lessons stand out as stark reminders that sometimes the easiest decision is the first one. Delaying it only makes is harder and more painful for everyone involved. Some argue that there is always a solution. Yet across generations, the words of a wisdom father still echo; “If anyone won’t love the Master, throw him out. Make room for the Master!” (1 Corinthians 16.22)
I still wonder if I have the disciplined and courage to do what I should have done with the individuals that did not match what we needed. Would I do anything differently? If so, why? I know Life has taught me what it is like when one does not take the decision, but is that enough to guarantee a different decision in the future?
Today is our opportunity to focus on life’s greatest values and priorities.
