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Why Emotional Detatchment Matters in Tech

·484 words·3 mins

“STAY LEVEL, STAY FOCUSED…”

Leadership in tech requires quick, strategic decision-making. But oftentimes, emotions can cloud our judgment and lead to poor choices. That’s why embracing the power of emotional detachment is critical for tech leadership.

In my experience, emotion-driven decisions frequently end up compromising long-term goals for short-term gains. The foundation is weak and fractured and so these decisions then contribute to increased stress and burnout as time progresses. In the past, I’ve sometimes stated that “technology doesn’t lie” or “technology doesn’t care about feelings” and what I mean is that regardless of a passion for a specific technology or solution, the best one should be chosen for the problem.

For example, when reviewing technologies, I’ll ask these questions:

  • Does the solution solve our current problem?
    • If metrics exist, do they suggest this solution is right for performance and scale?
  • Does the technology align with the current integration?
    • If not, how far does it deviate?
  • Is this solution sustainable long-term?
    • Or will it be replaced in one year or less?

I find that leaders who can separate emotions from their decision-making process tend to make more balanced, analytical choices. These decisions align better with the organization’s mission and help pave the way for sustainable success.

Benefits of Emotional Detachment #

Here are some of the top reasons why emotional detachment powers effective decision-making:

Enhanced objectivity: Removing emotions from the equation allows you to impartially weigh facts and evidence. You’re able to prioritize the company’s interests rather than personal feelings.

Stronger Analytical Thinking: Excessive emotions can impair cognitive function. But when you maintain detachment, you can engage in deeper critical thinking.

Vision (Long-Term): Emotional detachment enables you to focus on long-range goals rather than short-term wins. This aligns choices with the enduring vision.

Decreased Stress: Relying heavily on emotions in decision-making often increases anxiety and burnout. Detachment alleviates some of this pressure.

How to Put It Into Practice #

Emotional detachment doesn’t mean suppressing emotions completely. It simply involves managing them effectively as a leader.

Here are some tips I use in my daily practice:

  • Make time for reflection before decisions to recognize emotional triggers.
  • Seek diverse input from your team to minimize personal biases.
  • Lean on data and metrics whenever possible to move forward
  • Establish clear decision-making criteria to reduce subjectivity.
  • Practice mindfulness to boost self-awareness around emotions.
  • Prime your environment, and leverage your tools.
    • For me, this includes a pen, a blank notebook, and peace and quiet. I find this gets me in the space to make reflect on past and present decisions.

The bottom line is that emotional detachment powers strategic leadership. By keeping feelings in check, you can make objective, analytical decisions that pave the way for your organization’s success.

And isn’t that what great leadership is all about?

Let me know what you think about emotional detachment in tech leadership!

I’d ❤️ to hear your perspectives. Reach me on X @AARONGXA

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