We make thousands of decisions every day. Generally, the majority of decisions have little or no consequential value. However, some decisions carry long-lasting, if not eternal, consequences.

Theodore Roosevelt said, “In a moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing to do, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.”

Roosevelt’s thought deserves consideration, especially when we consider the impact on leadership development.

The foremost priority, when the moment of decision arises, is to do the right thing. We should add the necessity to do what is right for the other person. When others are the priority, the decision to do the right thing is clear.

Roosevelt’s statement indicates the worst decision to make is to do nothing. Jesus spoke about the eternal consequences of this decision in the “Parable of the Talents.” Regardless of the reason, to do nothing in leadership paralyzes everyone. Closely associated with this problem is the unnecessary delay in the decision.

The moment of decision is crucial and our consideration of the long-term consequences shape the proper direction.