In last week’s article, we explored the one question every leader should be asking: “What choice can I make and what action can I take in this moment to create the greatest net value?”
The Central Question wakes us up, grounds us in the present, and helps us lead with clarity and purpose. But how do you actually use it in everyday life? Here are five practical ways to apply this self-leadership tool:
1. Start Where You Are
Look at your immediate world — your family, your team, your community. How do you show up in those spaces? Are you spreading anxiety, or are you offering steadiness and clarity? Often, the difference you can make begins with simply being someone others can rely on.
2. Focus on What’s Real, Not Just What’s Loud
The world is noisy. Social media amplifies fear and negativity. But what’s real are the people in front of you — the coworkers, neighbors, and causes you care about. Direct your attention there. Ask yourself: What small step can I take today to create greater value?
3. Refuse to Add to the Fear
Fear is contagious — but so are courage, kindness, and calm. The way you speak about challenges, whether online or in person, has power. Are you reinforcing helplessness, or helping people see what’s possible? Self-leaders choose words and actions that generate value rather than drain it.
4. Take One Meaningful Step
Creating value doesn’t always require big moves. It might mean donating, volunteering, or simply reaching out to someone who needs encouragement. Small, consistent actions add up and ripple outward.
5. Remember History
Uncertainty is nothing new. Time and again, progress has been made not by a single sweeping change but through countless deliberate choices. History shifts because people decide to make a difference — right where they are.
Your Role in This Moment
You are not powerless. The forces shaping the world may be large, but what matters most is how you choose to respond right now. Over time, asking the central question becomes a habit — shifting you from passive to engaged, from distracted to present, from overwhelmed to clear.
So, pause and ask yourself: What choice can I make and action can I take in this moment to create the greatest net value? Learn more at Achievable.com.
Boost Your Business Growth with a Leadership Health Checkup!
Just like an annual health checkup, it’s important to take a moment and assess your company’s leadership. Here’s your chance!
I’ve created a Leadership Health Checkup sheet that has helped many businesses grow, and I’m offering it to you for FREE! Simply fill out the form below, and it will be sent to your email.
For the best results, have leaders, managers, or even the whole team fill it out anonymously.
– Michael Gidlewski, Founder of Achievement Unlimited, Inc.
