There's a well-known saying: "Don't focus just on the trees, but also see the forest." For those in leadership and decision-making roles, the ability to see the big picture is undeniably important. This is something everyone can agree on. However, when too much focus is placed on the broader vision, the finer details, like the individual trees, can often be overlooked. It is only by understanding the trees that we can recognize potential issues in the forest. If we fail to pay attention to the individual trees, we might miss the sick ones that could damage the whole forest. Yet, simply inspecting every leaf or tree is impossible in a large forest. As the forest grows, sections of it will be divided, and individual managers will take responsibility for specific areas. The most efficient way to maintain the health of the entire forest is for each manager to actively identify sick trees, prune them, and take the initiative to plant new ones.
In contrast, a dying or decaying organization leaves little room for the managers to make these decisions. When the manager looks around their section, they might see diseased or dying plants, but without the authority to act, they become powerless. They know they must cut down dead trees and restore the soil, but they need approval to proceed. If these decisions are constantly delayed, it becomes a routine rather than an active effort to improve.
The Role of Leadership in Empowering Decision-Makers
A higher-level decision-maker should not be the one making every decision. Their role is to empower lower-level managers to make decisions and take responsibility for them. If an upper-level manager insists on making every decision, even for minor issues, they create a situation where lower-level managers will never be able to take charge of their responsibilities. True leadership is not about making every decision, but about fostering an environment where team members feel confident and trusted to make decisions on their own.
It is tempting for upper-level leaders to think, "If I don't make this decision, it won't be made," but that is a sign of a failure in creating an empowered team. The best leaders are those who encourage their teams to make their own decisions, even when they make mistakes. When a leader intervenes too much in this process, it only hinders the team's growth and trust in their decision-making ability.
Creating a Self-Sustaining Environment for Decision-Makers
The path to creating a self-sustaining organization starts with taking responsibility for making key decisions and showing others how to do it. For example, if there is a diseased tree in the forest, the leader must first understand it in detail and show the team how to properly prune or replace it. The manager's role is to inspire their team members with a vision for the future of their section of the forest. Only then should they be trusted to carry out the work themselves. If the leader continually intervenes or micromanages, it will undermine the process.
When team members are empowered to make decisions, they are more likely to innovate and solve problems creatively. It is important for leaders to provide the necessary tools and resources—whether it's a chainsaw or a torch to clear the way—so the team can tackle issues on their own. These tools will help them make their own decisions and develop solutions without waiting for approval.
Sustained Growth Through Empowerment
A self-directed organization that encourages individual decision-making is more likely to thrive and achieve great results. Leaders must understand that focusing only on the forest is not enough. Sometimes, it's the small issues within the trees that, if left unchecked, can cause the whole forest to collapse. Empowering the team to fix these small issues on their own will ensure continued progress and success. A great leader doesn't just tell their team to fix a problem—they show them how to do it and create an environment where the team can solve problems creatively and independently.
In summary, by empowering decision-makers at every level, organizations can create a self-sustaining, thriving ecosystem that grows continuously.