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The Cost of Waiting: Why “Doing Nothing” Is the Most Expensive Strategy

The Cost of Waiting: Why “Doing Nothing” Is the Most Expensive Strategy

Tue, Oct 7, 2025 | Posted by Paul Sparrow

When markets shift, many CEOs adopt a dangerous mindset: Let’s wait and see. On the surface, it feels prudent, even safe. But hesitation quickly becomes the costliest default in leadership—a form of self-sabotage and an expensive compromise.

Economic shifts don’t pause until you’re ready. By the time you’re confident the upturn is real—or the downturn has arrived—it’s too late to act decisively. Competitors who moved first have already secured the best opportunities. And you’ll be left wishing you had not waited.

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