I take it to mean make sure you apply empathy in decisions, particularly hard ones. The ability to "put your foot down" is an independent skill and in many cases made easier if you take time to understand the perspectives and motivations of those who didn't have an initial voice in the conversation that led to the decision.

Ben has a good section in his recent book where he talks about firing executives. His suggested strategy involves a mix of exactly this, empathy, swift actions, and putting your foot down.