The Two Secrets to Decisiveness, According to Wilson Obeneme

In a recent LinkedIn post, Wilson Obeneme explores the nature of decisiveness, challenging the notion that it is an innate trait. Instead, Obeneme argues that decisiveness is a learned skill rooted in clarity, a concept he breaks down for his audience.

According to Obeneme, the perceived giftedness of decisive individuals stems from their understanding of two fundamental principles that are often overlooked in traditional education. He posits that decisiveness is not a matter of personality but a direct result of having a clear sense of self, values, and direction.

“Decisiveness is not a temperament, It is what happens when someone is clear. Clear about who they are, What they value and where they are going.”

Obeneme emphasizes that this clarity is the foundational element upon which other crucial leadership qualities are built. He identifies eight key attributes: Courage, Consistency, Capacity, Collaboration, Commitment, Credibility, and Creativity. However, he asserts that without the initial ‘C’ – Clarity – these attributes lack purpose and direction.

The Perils of Unclear Direction

Wilson Obeneme highlights the danger of pursuing goals without genuine clarity. He warns that individuals can mistakenly apply their efforts in counterproductive ways.

“You can be consistent toward the wrong thing, Be committed to someone else’s vision, And you can build capacity for a life you never chose.”

This observation underscores Obeneme’s central thesis: that clarity transforms actions from mere default responses into deliberate choices aligned with one’s true aspirations. He suggests that this essential clarity is cultivated through introspection and the honest answering of specific, often unasked, questions.

Identifying the Core Questions

The core of Obeneme’s insight lies in the power of self-inquiry. He frames decisiveness not as an inherent gift but as a consequence of confronting two specific questions that, once answered truthfully, provide the necessary direction for all other leadership competencies.

“Nobody taught you these questions, But the decisive people answered them.”

Obeneme challenges his readers to engage in this process of self-discovery, suggesting that the difficulty in answering these questions can reveal personal roadblocks to decisiveness. By encouraging this honest self-assessment, he provides a practical pathway for anyone seeking to enhance their decision-making capabilities.