The ability to clarify your thoughts is an important leadership characteristic. Many effective leaders can be even more successful if they not only zero in on the subject (focus) but crystalize their thoughts to create better clarity.
This is especially important when you’re trying to make a decision. The more clarity of thought, the more likely you can be firmly decisive. Here is a simple formula to follow for achieving greater clarity.
What do you want? This is the starting point: what is it that you want to accomplish. Don’t think about how you’re going to get there; think about what you want and start with the end in mind.
Don’t edit. A common pitfall is that voice inside of you that says you can’t do it. Ignore this voice and build on what you want. This will be hard for some of you, but it’s a vital step to move on to a successful outcome.
Create a clear goal. After you’ve gone through the previous steps, set an easy to understand objective. Write it down. Think about it. Make sure this is really what you want (and not what you think others would want). Make sure your goal is easy to understand so others will immediately grasp what you are requesting.
After you’ve completed these steps, then think about the obstacles that need to be overcome. It may seem counterintuitive, but your new-found clarity will go a long way to reduce the perceived obstacles. Often, we perceive impediments because of an initial lack of clarity.
Try this formula the next time you’re struggling with clarity. It’s much easier than you think and it will be the beginning of a new habit to use in future decision making.
