some situations present you with a few potential options, none of which are particularly all that desirable. you know that one or more people, projects, or programs will be adversely impacted no matter which choice you make. still, you also know decisions must be made because that’s part of being a leader. unfortunately, this knowledge does nothing to help alleviate the pain associated with these rocks and hard places.

however, social science has shown that the expectation of pain is often worse than the actual pain people experience. given that’s the case, perhaps our best course of action in these situations is to simply make a choice and lean into it.

stop debating. take action.

the results probably won’t be as bad as you expected.