When Your Employee Clings to Ideas and Jumps to Conclusions

"Some subordinates commit themselves to poorly thought-out ideas and will not let go. They become emotionally attached to a proposal or plan and cling to it while ignoring logic. This type of employee is particularly difficult to supervise because they hastily and prematurely decide on a course of action without adequate preparation and then feel that they have to stay glued to that decision. I wish Harry would analyze the issues more thoroughly and methodically before jumping to conclusions."

"He gets overly enthusiastic about an idea without fully comprehending what is involved. Sometimes, with a little bit of luck, it works out OK. On other occasions, by the time he realizes that he moved too quickly, he is in too deep. To get out would be embarrassing, so he holds on and tries to make it work. At times he can maneuver all of us to help save the day. At other times, the combination of unrealistic optimism and pride is a disaster."

Some employees become emotionally attached to poorly thought-out proposals and cling to decisions despite contrary logic. These employees often decide hastily and prematurely without adequate preparation and then feel compelled to stay committed. Overenthusiasm and unrealistic optimism can lead to situations that sometimes succeed by luck but sometimes become disasters. Managers should help balance optimism by requiring clearer definition of problems, insisting on enough questions to establish facts, and setting consistent expectations for vetting ideas before implementation. Protecting subordinates' ego while giving direct feedback helps preserve morale while correcting reckless decision-making. Encourage measured risk-taking while holding employees accountable for analysis and adjustments.

Read at Psychology Today