Business is full of complexities and contradictions.
Should we focus on growth or cost control? Innovation or stability? Short-term or long-term?
The list goes on. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed because both sides matter. But resources are limited—you can’t prioritize everything.
So how can a leader manage this complexity?
Take short-term vs. long-term focus as an example. At any moment, one might need more attention than the other. The needle is a mental model that helps simplify the complexity—it shows where to focus right now.
A leader’s role is to assess where the needle points. By using this approach, you can direct focus and communication toward what matters most. It keeps you from getting stuck and ensures the most important things get done.
Great leaders embrace complexity but act with clarity.
Where is your needle pointing?