Carlos Ghosn: 'When I come to a design decision, people know that is that.'

When I come to a design decision, people know that is that.

Carlos Ghosn, a renowned automotive executive and former chairman of Nissan, once said, "When I come to a design decision, people know that is that." This quote encapsulates the authority and influence that Ghosn held in the realm of design. It implies that his decisions were definitive and carried a sense of finality. Ghosn's statement highlights not only the weight of his expertise in shaping design outcomes but also the power dynamics that exist within decision-making processes.In the world of design, where countless ideas are generated and considered, the ability to make a decisive choice is crucial. Ghosn's quote signifies the importance of having someone with the expertise and vision to guide the creative process. When faced with multiple options, a leader who can confidently assert their design decisions brings clarity and direction to the table. This is especially vital in industries like automotive, where design choices directly impact the functionality, aesthetic appeal, and market success of products.However, beneath the surface of Ghosn's statement lies a philosophical concept that we can explore to add an unexpected twist to this discussion. Let's delve into the intriguing juxtaposition of Ghosn's decisive approach with the idea of uncertainty and the philosophy of Zen.Zen philosophy emphasizes living in the present moment and finding peace amidst uncertainty. It encourages individuals to embrace an open mind, let go of attachments to outcomes, and accept the impermanence of the world. These principles may seem contradictory to Ghosn's resolute design decisions, where certainty reigns supreme. Or do they?In our exploration, we realize that Ghosn's certainty may not be akin to blind conviction or rigidity but rather be rooted in a deep understanding of the design process itself. He has likely cultivated an expertise honed over years of experience, enabling him to trust his intuition and make informed decisions. Just as a Zen master reaches a point of profound understanding where their choices become instinctual, Ghosn's design decisions may be similar in nature.The comparison between Ghosn's unwavering design decisions and the Zen philosophy prompts us to reflect on the nature of certainty and uncertainty in our lives. It illustrates that certainty can coexist with uncertainty, as Ghosn's definitive choices are supported by a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Perhaps it is in embracing uncertainty that true certainty can be found.When we apply this concept beyond the realm of design, we can see that it extends to various aspects of life. Great leaders exhibit this same unwavering decisiveness, channeling their acquired knowledge and experience to make choices that inspire and transform. Just as Ghosn's design decisions were regarded as final, influential individuals in diverse fields bring a clarity of vision that empowers those around them.In conclusion, Carlos Ghosn's quote encapsulates the significance of decisive design decisions and the authority carried by those who make them. By exploring the unexpected connection between Ghosn's certainty and the Zen philosophy of uncertainty, we realize that true certainty can emerge from a deep understanding of a subject. Ghosn's resolute choices are a testament to the power of expertise and the ability to embrace uncertainty without losing sight of clarity and direction.