“I am working on this big project revamping the overall supply chain set up for the business. I started six months ago, and gosh, I find it so boring. Sure I step beyond my comfort zone, but the more it goes the more I realize I do no particularly enjoy working on long term strategy plans. I am a hands-on guy. What I really enjoy is being on the floor, close to my teams, bring the best out of my organization and improve how we operate our plant to best serve the business.
I have been approached by local growing companies to support them with their expansion. But I am not sure if this is the right thing to do for me and for my family.
I am torn and tired. I need to make a decision. Should I stay or should I go?”
Simon took me through the pros and cons and all the people he consulted to give him advice … until I interrupted him, took a coin in my purse, and flipped it.
“Heads – you stay for another year”.
“Tails – you quit within a year”.
At that very moment, on the other side of the screen he turned white and his hands were shaking as they ran over his face.
There was nothing more than silence for what felt like an eternity. Until Simon took a deep breathe in and said “I know. In fact I always knew”.
He never asked what fate decided for him. He didn’t need to.
Few days after our conversation, Simon went to his boss and asked for a sabbatical. He had this is mind since years and never dared to ask (“Senior leaders in my position don’t do that”, “I am the bread winner of the family”, “It’s a sign of weakness”). He had to cope with resistance from his management, and he did not give up. His full year off started December 1st and he is looking forward to the journey.
Most people believe they need to make a decision. The truth is in most cases they already know what is best for them. All they need is a pinch of insane courage to make a step forward.
How about YOU … what is ONE decision you need to make?
I believe in you. Don’t give up.
Love,
Delphine