Article
The Cost of Doing Nothing
April 3, 2023
When we’re faced with a decision to make, we usually spend time analyzing the pros and cons. Research tells us that we’re more motivated by fear of pain, loss and the downside of things than the benefits or positive reasons do something.
When a group of CEOs, executives and advisors and I talked about this in a recent conversation, someone shared another option: the idea that, instead of doing something, we do nothing.
Rarely do we analyze what would happen.
Quick Context
So, here’s a simple question to consider for a situation you’re in:
If I do nothing, what’s it going to be like in five years?
The answer quickly gives you context. Will there be a serious impact, or none?
Taking it further, if you’re still unsure, ask:
What would be the best-case scenario? How likely is that?
What would be the worst-case scenario? How likely is that?
These questions are good for any situation: decisions about key employees, customer investments or finances, health and relationships.
So, instead of just looking at the pros and cons, consider what could happen if you made no decision at all. Could be interesting!
The Challenge
- Instead of just thinking about the positives or negatives about doing something, think about the magnitude of not doing anything.
Additional Podcasts
Additional Blogs
- The Art of Decision Making
- Strategic Leadership vs Tactical Decision Making
- Do You Have a Debate Deficit or a Decision Deficit – or Both?
- Up to Speed with Decision Making
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About Kevin Lawrence
Kevin Lawrence has spent three decades helping companies scale from tens of millions to hundreds of millions in revenue. He works side-by-side with CEOs and leadership teams across North America, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and Europe, bringing real-world insights from hands-on experience. Kevin is the author of Your Oxygen Mask First, a book of 17 habits to help high-performing leaders grow sustainably while protecting their mental health and resilience. He also contributed to Scaling Up (Rockefeller Habits 2.0). Based in Vancouver, he leads Lawrence & Co, a boutique firm of growth advisors.