The Second Mouse

I got a fortune from a fortune cookie from lunch the other day that said “The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.”

I suppose it’s a warning in some way that when you’re pursuing something that you want, taking a little time to assess the situation, particularly the downside of trying to get that thing, is important.

In life, and certainly in leadership, impulsively going for something that seems like a great idea — without fully thinking it through — can backfire. We may end up disappointed not because we failed, but because we didn’t consider what we were giving up or what obstacles might get in the way.

The takeaway from that silly little fortune? Sometimes, it pays to slow down just enough to think it through.

Here are three tips leaders can use when weighing their options:

• Ask: What Am I Giving Up If I Say Yes? Every opportunity comes with trade-offs. Make sure you’re clear on what resources — time, focus, credibility, or team energy — you’re committing before you move forward.
• List the Downsides and Workarounds: For each appealing option, jot down the potential risks or challenges, then ask, “If that happens, what would I do?” This mindset keeps you realistic but proactive, and helps you act with more confidence.
• Consider What Happens If You Do Nothing: Often overlooked, the “do nothing” option is a valid choice. Sometimes the best decision is to wait, gather more information, or let the situation evolve before acting at all.

It’s great to be the early bird — but every now and then, it’s the second mouse who gets the reward.