As lab managers, we often face an overwhelming list of tasks, decisions, and responsibilities. It's easy to fall into the habit of telling ourselves, "I'll wait." We wait for the perfect time, more information, or a sign that we’re ready. However, as Melody Wilding of CNBC pointed out in her article, these two words can be incredibly toxic—not only to our performance as managers but also to our career growth.

Let’s explore a few examples of how the "I'll wait" mentality can manifest:

1. "I'll wait until after the weekend to address that performance issue."
   Procrastinating on addressing performance concerns can allow issues to fester, making them harder to resolve and potentially damaging team morale.
2. "I'll wait until next year to ask for more responsibility."
   Delaying the request for more responsibility can mean missing out on growth opportunities, professional development, and increased visibility within your organization.
3. "I'll wait until after the summer to improve my work/life balance."
   Pushing back on creating a better work-life balance can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and overall dissatisfaction.
4. "I'll wait until I have more data before I report my results."
   While having data is essential, waiting too long to report results can mean missing out on timely decisions, feedback, and opportunities for improvement.
5. "I'll wait until I have all the information before I make a decision."
   Waiting for perfect information can lead to decision paralysis, where progress stalls because you’re trying to avoid any risk.

At first glance, these delays might seem reasonable or even make you feel more comfortable. But here's the problem: the right time rarely arrives. Instead, action is continuously postponed, and opportunities slip away.

Why Do We Fall into the "I'll Wait" Trap?

When you catch yourself thinking, "I'll wait," ask yourself why. Here are a few common reasons:

• Lack of confidence: Are you doubting your abilities or fearing failure?
• Discomfort: Is the task at hand something you need to do but don’t want to do?
• Fear of rejection: Are you worried about being told "no" or facing resistance?

Once you identify the underlying reason, challenge it. Is the fear or discomfort worth the cost of inaction? More often than not, you’ll find that the benefits of taking action far outweigh the reasons for waiting.

Moving Beyond "I'll Wait"

To combat the "I'll wait" syndrome, start by recognizing when you're using it as an excuse. Next, reframe the situation by focusing on the potential rewards of acting now. What could you achieve if you didn't wait? How might taking immediate action positively impact your team, your career, or your well-being?

Ultimately, growth comes from action, not hesitation. Don’t let "I'll wait" hold you back. Embrace the discomfort, take the initiative, and step confidently into the opportunities that await.

What steps will you take today to break free from the "I'll wait" syndrome?