Being Effective Beats Being Right

Early in your career, it can be difficult to know when to focus on being effective versus when it’s worth standing firm on being right. Over time, I’ve learned  that wisdom lies in knowing which battles truly matter—when it’s worth standing your ground, and when it’s smarter to focus on achieving the best outcome.

One habit that’s helped me navigate disagreements or challenging situations is to start by asking myself: “What is the outcome I want to achieve here?”

Most of the time, I realize it’s more important to be strategic and solution-oriented than to win  an argument or prove a point. I've watched brilliant professionals derail their careers by fighting battles that weren't worth winning.

But there are exceptions.  When an issue deeply aligns with my core values or beliefs, I sometimes choose to set effectiveness aside. In those moments, expressing my truth becomes more important than smoothing the path.. Why? Because there are limits to how much I'm willing to compromise who I am for the sake of a more convenient result. Living and leading authentically matters more.

My advice? Learn to tell the difference. Ask yourself: Does this moment call for strategic effectiveness or standing for my truth? Choose consciously—and be prepared to own the consequences of that choice, whichever path you take.