Years ago, I had a principal whose favorite saying was, "Other people do my best thinking for me." Today, I put that mantra to the test. When faced with some important decisions, I spent time trying to come up with my own solutions. I quickly realized that others in the building had better insights than I did. So, I asked for their help. They were happy to assist and because they've worked there longer, their ideas were often practical and easy to implement. While what I was considering would have done the job, these fresh ideas were right on target and caused things to go much smoother than they would have otherwise. In some cases, it actually placed more work on the other person, but they were willing to accept that as it was part of their solution.
As a leader, I have to remember that I don't know it all. I am surrounded by a team of people who see things in ways I don't. We depend on each other for help and support. What happens when their ideas work well? I give them credit. What if their idea flops? I take full credit. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Ultimately, I am responsible for the final result of my decisions. I accept that. But, I don't have to be responsible for coming up with all the solutions. If I'm going to be effective, I have to be willing to seek out and listen to others and, in some cases, let them do my best thinking for me.
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