R3

11.02.10

Right Things.  Right Timing.  Right Reasons.

Decisions are tough, especially when they directly affect the future of any team, organization, or group.  Emotions can run high in the midst of change, too.

Think about this:  there has NEVER been a President of the USA, a Governor of any State, or a Mayer of any city that has NOT been criticized.  While I'm sure there are many reasons, the one that comes to mind immediately is simply this...

Change.

Change affects everyone differently.  Some thrive on it, while others avoid it.  Some melt down under its pressure, while others refine and strengthen.

Leaders MUST make decisions that catalyze CHANGE.  Period.

But what do you do when a clear cut decision isn't so accessible, and there is "no right or wrong answer?"...

My mentor has encouraged me to filter major decisions through the R3 matrix:

1.  Right Things:  Is this decision in alignment with the truth of God's Word?  Seems like a rhetorical question, but I can't count the number of times this simple filter question has protected me from "gut feel" poor decisions.

2.  Right Timing: Is it the right timing for this decision to be made?  Sometimes even the best decisions need to wait for God's timing.

And finally...

3.  Right Reasons: Is this decision motivated by the right reasons?  Why are you doing this... REALLY?  Stop, and truly ponder that question. WHY?  Is it for respect? recognition? Are you doing to prove something to someone you probably don't even really like anyway? 


I encourage you to consider this filter next time you endeavor into life's toughest calls.  Change is necessary, and bold leadership is mandatory from time to time.  Can't please everyone.... but you can do your best to make God honoring decisions for the Right reasons, Right timing, and right things by stopping and considering these thoughts....

Time to CHANGE.