Exploring the Realities of Leadership Decisions

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Several months ago, I had a lunch meeting with a group of fellow directors. One of them—new to their role—was dealing with a tricky management situation and wanted some feedback. They laid out the details, hoping for insight and maybe even a magic solution. I listened carefully, already familiar with many of the personalities involved. I knew whatever action they chose wouldn’t be easy. Every option had consequences.

I told them I saw three possible approaches. They smiled—eager to hear the options laid out clearly, hoping one might offer the perfect answer.

Option 1: Confront the Issue Directly

This is the bold move—cards on the table, full confrontation. We talked about this at length. There’s something cathartic about addressing the issue head-on, setting a firm boundary, and taking control. But in the world of volunteer-led and nonprofit organizations, this kind of confrontation can backfire. You risk being labeled as “difficult ” and “mean” or inflexible, and bridges can burn quickly. Still, there are moments when it’s the right approach—especially when the cost of silence is too high.

Option 2: The Middle Ground

This path is more diplomatic. I suggested leaning into policies, procedures, and statutes—perhaps ADA compliance or existing organizational bylaws—to support the Director’s position. From there, they could create a memorandum of agreement or similar document to formalize expectations.

This option is strategic, but it’s also slow. It requires time, patience, and a whole lot of emotional labor. It’s not glamorous, and it can be exhausting. But when done well, it can lead to long-term, sustainable change.

The Director nodded, though not enthusiastically. “Okay,” they said. “You said there were three options. What’s the third?”

Option 3: Do Nothing

Yes, doing nothing is an option. It’s not always the best one, but it’s a choice. You let things continue as they are—unchanged and unchallenged. Sometimes, it’s a strategic pause. Other times, it’s a way of avoiding discomfort. But the truth is, if nothing changes, the situation often worsens.

It’s important to acknowledge that none of these choices are easy. There’s no magic button. Every option has trade-offs, and you have to be ready to own the consequences of whichever path you choose.

Because sometimes, the hardest part of leadership isn’t making the right choice—it’s recognizing that you do have one.

Download the Decision Making Guide Mini-Toolkit, if you’re navigating a tricky situation and want to explore your options. Also, I’m here to help. You can reach out directly via email insight@kaleidoscopehf.com or in the comments.

Alt Text: Cheerful watercolor illustration of three flowers—red, blue, and yellow—framed by green leaves and colorful swirling flourishes extending outward in shades of blue, teal, orange, and red.

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Next Sunday’s feature is, Navigating Overstimulation in Post-COVID Museum Spaces, and includes an Exhibit Overstimulation Assessment Mini-Toolkit.