Ever been in that moment where you’re stuck between choices, weighing every possibility, and unable to move forward? As a project architect, hesitation can slow progress, affect results, and impact team morale. Decisiveness isn’t just about making choices—it’s about making them with confidence and a clear sense of direction. It’s a trait that strong leaders demonstrate daily.
Brian Tracy once said, “Decisiveness is a characteristic of high-performing men and women. Almost any decision is better than no decision at all.” Delaying decisions can slow a project down and create uncertainty for clients and contractors alike. So let’s explore why decisiveness matters and how you can strengthen this skill.
The Power of Decisiveness in Leadership
Being decisive provides your team with confidence and direction. When you make a firm call, it reassures those around you that there is a clear plan. Hesitation can create doubt, while decisive action signals control and competence. As Brian Tracy put it, “Develop the characteristic and quality of decisiveness”
Standing behind your choices also builds trust. When your team sees that you take responsibility for decisions, they gain confidence in your leadership. People follow those who provide direction, not those who waver and second-guess. Over time, as the project architect on numerous jobs, I’ve found myself in the position of making final decisions—sometimes because there was no one else to turn to, and other times because I was deeply involved and understood the options and what would work. Through these experiences, I have developed the ability to be decisive.
The Qualities of a Decisive Leader
A decisive project architect makes decisions with intention and confidence. Here are some characteristics of a decisive leader:
- Making informed decisions quickly – Gather relevant information, analyze it effectively, and act without unnecessary delays.
- Confidence in choices – Committing to decisions and standing by them.
- Accountability – Owning the results of every decision.
- Clear focus – Avoiding distractions and keeping attention on priorities.
Frank Gehry once said, “Creativity is about making decisions.” In architecture, every choice—big or small—shapes the built environment and the impact of our work.
How to Strengthen Decisive Thinking
If being decisive isn’t second nature, it can be developed. Here are a few ways to build this skill:
1. Manage Hesitation and Overthinking
Overanalyzing every detail can lead to inaction. If you find yourself stuck, step back, assess the key facts, and commit to a choice. As Tony Robbins says, “A real decision is measured by the fact that you’ve taken a new action. If there’s no action, you haven’t truly decided.”
2. Set Decision Deadlines
Without a time limit, decisions can stretch endlessly. Set firm deadlines for decisions to avoid delays and maintain forward momentum.
3. Reduce Unnecessary Options
Having too many choices can make decision-making overwhelming. Focus on the most viable options, assess them quickly, and move forward. As John Wooden put it, “Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”
4. Seek Input, Then Decide
Listening to different perspectives is valuable, but at the end of the day, the responsibility lies with you. Gather insights, evaluate them, and then make the final call. “Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.” (Brian Tracy)
5. Accept That No Decision Is Perfect
Waiting for the perfect decision often leads to inaction. There will always be some level of uncertainty, but trusting your expertise and instincts is key to making effective choices.
The Impact of Decisive Leadership on Your Team
Your decisiveness directly influences your team’s effectiveness. When you make strong decisions, you:
- Provide clear direction – Eliminating confusion on what’s next.
- Keep momentum strong – Reducing time wasted on uncertainty.
- Build trust – Your team knows they can rely on you.
- Encourage initiative – Others feel empowered to take action.
- Promote accountability – People take ownership when leadership sets a strong example.
Final Thoughts
Decisiveness drives progress. As project architects, we’re constantly making choices that have real impacts, big or small. The more confidently we make these decisions, the better the results. As Brian Tracy puts it, “It’s easy to make decisions if you know what you want to accomplish.” Remember, “Indecision is the thief of opportunity” (Jim Rohn). Step up, take action, and lead with conviction. Decide with confidence. Lead with purpose.
Be the ONE