As a leader, have you ever “just known” a decision was wrong? You couldn’t point to a spreadsheet or a failed background check, but every logical fiber in your brain signaled a red flag.
In my book, The Magnetic Leader, I dive into a concept that many executives struggle to define: the difference between intuition and insight. While we often use these words interchangeably, there is a subtle, high-stakes distinction that can make or break your career.
Knowing vs. Feeling
We often think of intuition as a “gut feeling”—a vague sense that something is off. But insight is different. Insight is a mental, logical “knowing.” It isn’t an emotional reaction; it’s a cognitive realization that a specific path is the right one, even when the external evidence hasn’t caught up yet.
I remember a time earlier in my career when my organization was about to make a key hire. My senior leader wanted a specific person to fill the role, but I knew—beyond a shadow of a doubt—that it was the wrong move. I received significant pushback and eventually moved on to start my own business. Months later, the facts finally came to light, and my “knowing” was proven correct. By the time the evidence appeared, however, the damage was already done. My previous boss ended up losing his job over the situation.
The High Cost of 100% Certainty
Many business owners fall into the “Certainty Trap.” They refuse to move until they have 100% of the data. General Colin Powell famously spoke about the “60/40 Rule.” If you have 60% of the information, you need to make a decision. If you wait until you have 100%, the window of opportunity has likely slammed shut. In leadership, the “cost” of waiting is almost always missed opportunities.
How to Lead When the Data is Missing
When you have a strong insight, but the evidence isn’t there yet, how do you get others to follow you?
You must focus on your character. You might not be able to get people to trust your insight immediately, but you can get them to trust you. By being a person of strong value and integrity, you cast a vision that people want to get behind. They follow the leader first and the logic second.
Building the Muscle of Insight
Trusting your insight is a muscle that requires “reps.” If you are afraid to take a massive leap based on an insight, start small.
- Start with Low Stakes: Test your insight on minor issues or daily situations first.
- Examine the Results: When your “knowing” is proven right in small matters, your confidence to handle bigger risks will grow.
- Take the Step: Gradually move toward larger decisions once you’ve proven to yourself—and your team—that your insight is a reliable tool.
You don’t need to wait for five years of evidence to know you are right today. Trust your mental database. Trust your insight. It’s the difference between a leader who reacts to the market and a leader who shapes it.
Until next time, make today GREAT!
P.S. Are you struggling to find clarity in a high-stakes decision? Don’t process these “swirling thoughts” alone. Visit www.mcclurecoaching.com/free-strategy-session to apply for a free call where we’ll strategize how to move forward most effectively.
P.P.S. Not ready to apply for a free call? Make sure to follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube where I share more leadership tips.
