Doing the right thing isn’t enough. Timing matters. Method matters. These are the immovable laws of nature when it comes to leadership. It doesn’t matter whether you are leading a family or a team or a corporation or a country. When you do the right thing that you know should be done will often determine success or failure. How you do the right thing that you know should be done will often determine the amount of collateral damage. Surgery may be necessary, but timing matters, method matters.

We want to believe that rightness is independent from timing, but over and over again that proves untrue. You are more likely to be sentenced harshly and denied parole if your hearing is in the afternoon. It’s the same judge and parole board, just in the afternoon. Science tells us we aren’t the same all the time; our judgment isn’t the same; our emotions aren’t the same; and our outcomes are not the same. Our own internal timing matters in decision making, how much more the timing within a group or civilization. Discern the right time and win the day. Choose poorly and blow up the process or at least end up with cold dinner.

Right time. Right way. Right action. Leadership is discerning when all three circles overlap and choosing that moment to move. Change happens best not only when it is good but when it is wise and timely.

Today I read a scripture that reminded me that God has not only a will but a time for us to follow. “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) I am challenged to not just ask what is right but also when should I do it and how should it be done. Because doing the right thing isn’t enough.