Judgment was first published in 2007 and is a leadership book that explores the importance of sound judgment in leadership. The book argues that good judgment is a critical leadership skill and outlines a framework for developing and improving this skill.
Good judgment is a critical leadership skill
The book argues that good judgment is essential for effective leadership, as leaders must constantly make decisions that affect their organizations and stakeholders. Developing good judgment requires a combination of experience, reflection, and feedback.
Leaders must be self-aware and reflective
Leaders must be self-aware and reflective, and constantly seek to improve their own judgment and decision-making processes. Good judgment involves acknowledging one’s own biases and limitations, and being open to feedback and criticism.
Leaders must be resilient
Leaders must be resilient in the face of setbacks and failures, and be able to learn from these experiences. Good judgment involves using failures as opportunities for growth and improvement, rather than as sources of blame or shame.
Judgment can be developed and improved
The book argues that judgment is not a fixed trait, but rather a skill that can be developed and improved over time. Leaders can improve their judgment by seeking out new experiences, reflecting on their decisions, and learning from feedback and mistakes.
Leaders must build a culture of learning
Leaders must build a culture of learning within their organizations, where people are encouraged to learn from their experiences and mistakes. Good judgment involves constantly seeking feedback and improving one’s decision-making processes.
Leaders must balance competing demands
Leaders must balance competing demands from different stakeholders, such as shareholders, employees, customers, and society. Good judgment involves making decisions that optimize outcomes for all stakeholders, rather than just one or a few.
Leaders must have a sense of purpose and values
Leaders must have a strong sense of purpose and values that guide their decision-making. Good judgment involves aligning one’s decisions with one’s values and principles, and being accountable for the consequences of one’s actions.
Leaders must be able to communicate effectively
Leaders must be able to communicate their decisions and rationale effectively to others, in order to build trust and support. Good judgment involves being able to explain complex concepts in simple terms, and to listen and respond to others’ concerns and perspectives.
Judgment is not the same as intelligence
Intelligence alone is not sufficient for good judgment, as it only provides the raw materials for decision-making. Judgment involves using intelligence, experience, and values to make sound decisions in complex and uncertain situations.
Leaders must embrace complexity and uncertainty
Leaders must learn to operate in complex and uncertain environments, where there are no clear solutions or easy answers. Good judgment involves being comfortable with ambiguity and paradox, and using intuition and creativity to navigate difficult situations.
