A few weeks ago, I was confronted with a tough decision around my core values.
Deciding Between the Easy Wrong Call and the Tough Right Move
In the grand scheme of things, it wasn’t a massive life‑shaking event, but even so it kept looping through my thoughts for a solid 24 hours. This is the kind of thing that can’t just slip away like a minor hiccup; it’s the kind of impulse that nudges you toward the right call – even if you’re terrified to make it.
Why it’s been on my mind
Deep inside, instinct was telling me the logical choice right off the bat; still, something kept dragging me to the opposite end. Below are the two rough paths I’m weighing:
- Easy Wrong Call: Quick, low‑stress, check the box and move on. It feels safe but the price is a pile of “what‑ifs.”
- Tough Right Move: Harder, risky, demands sweat but offers that sweet victory‑taste of true impact.
Just Fired Up a New Project
On top of that, I’ve just landed a fresh project with a brand‑new client. Like all my gigs, I’m aiming to be the so‑good‑you‑feel‑like‑you’ve-just‑won‑big at the table. I want to deliver ten times the value they think they’re getting – and that’s my mission.
Feeling the ‘First‑Date’ Vibe
It’s the early weeks – those giddy, quick‑fire moments when you’re trying to make a good impression. Just like dating, you’re keen to showcase your best self while ensuring you’re genuinely helpful and genuine. That’s how I roll:
- Showcase Skills: Throw in all the tricks and tricks I’ve got in the toolbox.
- Listen Carefully: Hug the client’s vision, snag what matters.
- Over‑Deliver: Sprinkle that extra hustle, keep the client smiling.
Walking the Line
So there you go – the dilemma sits in front of me: go with the safe yet hollow shortcut or dive deep into the tougher path and actually make a difference. Either way, I’m ready to turn the excitement of that first‑moment vibe into real, tangible results for the client.
Basically, I screwed up my diary management and missed one of the project calls.
Morning Madness and the Time Tangle
Picture this: I’m up at the crack of dawn, coffee in hand, the office lights still humming, gearing up for a Zoom pow‑wow with an executive crew. By 10:30, I’m out the door, ready to broker a quick hand‑off to my wife and dive into the chaotic world of homeschooling our 8‑year‑old.
Because Juggling is a Full‑Time Job…
- Full‑time careers for both of us
- Zoom masters and math whizzes
- Kids, calculators, and endless homework
- All under the gray skies of a worldwide lockdown
Road Not Taken: Missing the Call
While I was tackling a stubborn equation with her, the call flew over my head. It was only when a colleague pinged me that the reality hit: the meeting had already wrapped up. Luckily, my colleague had stepped in, and the client said the session ran smoothly – no drama on the other end.
What a Bummer for the Old “Punctuality” Man
My track record of on‑time meetings is my pride. Skipping a slot feels like a dent in my own reputation. I’m told there’s no need to make up for it, but the nagging nag is still in the back of my mind.
Integrity – A Way of Life
Doing the right thing, even when the camera’s off, sits at the core of who I am. Even if it’s just a missing minute, it clashes with that commitment. I can’t just shrug off that feeling.
In the end, I ‘fessed-up’.
Apologizing & Reaching for True Values
The Little Oops Moment
Hi Client, I just wanted to say sorry for missing our scheduled meeting. While I was running a session for another client, I didn’t mean it was an excuse—just a hiccup. Thanks for understanding!
We’re Not Super‑Human, But We’re Honest
- I’ll admit that I’m not a saint. We’re all human.
- I never promise perfection, but I do try to stay true to my core values.
- Every little decision I make is a practice ground for the big, tough ones that come later.
Why Core Values Matter
- Clarity is the first step. Knowing what matters to us keeps our choices on track.
- Consistency follows. Once we act the same way all the time, people see we’re reliable.
- Trust builds. With a solid value foundation, teammates and clients’ll naturally want to follow your lead.
A Quick Takeaway
When leaders lock in their core values, the whole team’s actions become predictable—and that predictability is what turns a good leader into a trusted guide.