Pause Intentionally. Think Strategically.
Clear Thinking Decision DeckTM


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Author: Pamela J. Green
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Course time: 3 minutes
Series: Decision Deck
Quick-Start Guide: 3 Ways to Use Your Deck
1. Solo Reflection
Take 5–10 minutes at the start or end of your day.
- Shuffle the deck, draw one card at random, or follow the order provided.
- Ask yourself: “How does this scenario show up in my leadership today?”
- Write your response to the prompt before revealing the answer key.
- Journal one insight or action step following the reveal.
2. Team Facilitation
- Select a scenario that mirrors a current challenge.
- Ask each team member: “How would you address this challenge?"
- Discuss differences in perspective before revealing the Answer Key.
- What are the key takeaways and new opportunities to improve practices?
3. Executive Coachig or Peer Conversations
- Present the client/peer with a relevant scenario.
- Let them talk through their decision-making process.
- Use the Answer Key as a springboard for deeper discussion.
Result: Sharpens executive presence, decision-making confidence, and strategic thinking under pressure.
Clear Thinking
Bonus Scenario 1
During a team meeting, a direct report unexpectedly confronts you about a decision you've made.
A. Address it quickly so the team can move forward.
B. Pause, acknowledge their frustration, inform them you will consider their concern, and get back with everyone at a later time. Invite them to a private meeting to discuss their approach.
C. Pause, acknowledge the disrespect, ask to speak with them offline.
Bonus Scenario 2
In a heated discussion, someone misrepresents your point of view. What do you do?
A. Correct them immediately.
B. Remain calm, knowing the misunderstanding will pass.
C. Clarify your position calmly and restate your intent to ensure shared understanding.
Bonus Scenario 3
You’re juggling multiple priorities, and a colleague publicly insinuates you're not pulling your weight.
A. You're quick on your feet, so challenge their workload, suggesting it's not nearly as high-stakes as yours.
B. Pause, separate fact from perception, and respond with composure and strategy rather than emotion.
C. Ignor the dig and allow your silence to signal that their behavior isn't worthy of your time to respond.
Read.
Practice.
Learn.
Improve.
Learn to use all the related tools, and up your leadership game starting tomorrow:
- Your Decision DeckTM is just the beginning.
- Inside the full ThinkSuite™ Studio, you’ll discover:
- Advanced scenario decks
- The Strategic Intelligence Diagnostic
Premium leadership modules and facilitation tools.
