You’ve been collecting data, gathering information, asking for insight, but you’re still not comfortable making the decision. If you could only get a little more data or reach a consensus, you’d feel better about moving forward, right? The truth is, it isn’t a lack of data that’s postponing your decision. If you’re suffering from analysis paralysis, it’s because you’re afraid of making a mistake.

Creativity is in short supply — especially in the AV business. We engineer, work systems, and follow protocol. And in the midst of that, it’s really hard to be creative. In fact, that’s why a lot of AV companies bring me in for a consultation — they need a creative perspective. People ask me to help them work through their challenges, review their proposals, and weigh in on their opportunities because I bring a lot of creative ideas. So, what’s the secret to my creativity?

Cash flow is one of the main obstacles to growing your business. We’re familiar with the phrase “cash is king” for a reason. With cash, you hold the power to take your business to the next level. Payroll isn’t a problem. Marketing becomes more intentional. Decisions are made based on what’s actually best for business (not just what you can afford). Cash flow is probably the biggest challenge for small business owners — but it’s not the biggest challenge for all business owners. Some owners have grown their business from “small” into extremely profitable companies.

If there is one change you should make in your leadership today, it’s this: Stop seeking consensus. Make a decision and move on. Many of us have a tendency to avoid making a decision by continuing to talk about it. We think we can make more decisions if we just get everyone “on the same page” and have more meetings. I’ve sat in these meetings, and the truth is, they’re not helping you. It’s time to stop. But how? What’s the alternative? Leadership.

Let’s pretend a stranger walked up to you, handed you $1,000, and said, “All you have to do is give me $200 back.” Would you do it? On paper, it makes perfect sense. You’d make $800 instant profit. Why wouldn't you do that? The fact is, though, most of us would NOT go through with it. We’d look at the cash in our hand and question it. We’d challenge it, because deep down, we’re all innately afraid of money.

I read a post recently that said a CEO has only three indelible roles: Choose the direction of the business, Get the right people on board, and Keep the cash flowing. I struggle to find anything wrong with this simplification. Let me break it down.