I’ll admit it, I’m a pistachio NUT. Once I start, it’s hard to stop. And to slow down, I usually buy the shelled variety.
But there’s that ONE pistachio. You know the one, the stubborn, un-cracked pistachio – what do I do? I fight with it, twist it, try to pry it open… sometimes even using my teeth because I’m too lazy to grab a tool. I’ve done this for years without problems. I WANT that pistachio, no matter the cost!!!
Until last year, that’s when I broke a tooth. And let me tell you, it wasn’t cheap.
Now, when I see an un-cracked pistachio, my first thought is: “Not worth it.”
But then, there’s that little voice: “Just one more…”
Here’s the thing: my risk perception has changed. Not because of rules or training, but because experience taught me to weigh the consequences differently.
Workers face “Pistachio-like” Decisions Every Day.
Most conscious, risk-based decisions at work aren’t dramatic. They’re small, routine, and often come with a reward:
“I can finish faster.”
“I’ve done it this way before.”
“Nothing bad has ever happened.”
These micro-decisions feel harmless until the day they aren’t, just like my tooth.
Leadership’s Role: Engage with Others and Influence Before It’s Too Late
Workers shouldn’t have to experience an injury to better understand risk. As leaders, it’s our job to:
– Engage workers to Re-engineer or eliminate risks, whenever possible.
– Help people see risk differently, before they experience loss.
– Make safer decisions, the easier, more obvious choice.
– Build trust so workers value our words of caution.
– Work to reinforce the right behaviors consistently.
My pistachio decision was small… until it wasn’t.
And yes, I know what you’re thinking: “Why not just buy shelled pistachios?” Well, they’re too easy to eat, and I’d devour the whole bag no matter the size!
At work, the stakes may be much higher than a broken tooth. If we want people to make better decisions, we can’t wait for the near-miss or the wake-up call.
Leaders must translate risk into engagement and meaning, helping workers “see the crack” in every risky choice before it costs them something greater than a broken tooth. hashtag#risk hashtag#safetyculture hashtag#safetyleadership hashtag#safetyinfluence hashtag#safetycoaching