Becoming Comfortable with the Uncomfortable: Embracing 100% of the Truth

In each of our journeys through life and at work, we often encounter spaces that feel daunting – conversations that are intense, contentious, and challenging where there is rarely one answer. Have you ever noticed how some leaders effortlessly navigate these discussions, fostering unity and clarity, while others struggle, held back by apprehensions or the status quo? We all find solace in the familiar, but sometimes, that comfort and familiarity lulls us into a false sense of security. In my upcoming book, Belonging Rules, I invite you to explore complex, emotionally charged terrains with me. Together, we'll discover the power of seeking 100% truth, not just from leaders in organizations of which we are a part, but also from ourselves, as we work to instill the sense of belonging our companies and communities so desperately need.?

In today’s world, where extreme narratives and positions work to capture attention, we've grown accustomed to echo chambers and binary thinking, accepting without challenge what we wish to, often that which resonates with our personal biases. Consequently, the full truth has become elusive, even beyond reach to some. But by striving to arrive at 100% of the truth, we can pull together to find our way around obstacles, because we better understand how to get to the heart of challenges.

It's alarming to note that many, even the most efficient organizations, operate in the comfortable realm of just 75% to 80% of the truth. Think about what discussions they are missing. What disagreements are being shelved. Consider what issues are being covered up or left undiscussed. Through our research and in our consulting work at Deutser, we've observed that the remaining 20-25% is where the most complex and tenuous issues reside, often sparking intense disagreements, while also bringing the most powerful and important sources of potential progress. This is also where lasting change begins. Avoiding these tough and nuanced issues creates something that may look like unity, but ultimately leaves the underlying issues unresolved. To truly benefit everyone, it's vital that leaders seek the whole truth.?

Yet, championing the whole truth feels counterintuitive in today's culture, which often penalizes transparency and can feel riddled with risk. We've grown comfortable with tailored truths, especially those that fit our narrative or comfort levels. The ultimate power of truth is subtle; there is often a burn off that can feel like digression, however, truth serves us immensely in the long run. It builds trust and ensures lasting inclusivity. Often, when the truth is missing from interactions, we feel ostracized and excluded. Similarly, leading without complete transparency kicks the can to a later time and makes us vulnerable to future exposures, whether we want to admit that or not.

When we demand and champion truth as leaders, we cultivate innovation and allocate resources more effectively. The exposure of the full truth not only uncovers missed opportunities but also sheds light on hindrances and misalignments. This open exchange energizes the often quieter voice of the middle, the group who often stays silent, making the necessary adjustments to go along often as the only way they can see a way forward. While confronting reality might initially cause discomfort or fear, it lays the foundation for genuine collaboration and respect, key ingredients for the emergence of belonging in organizations. The shift when operating collectively from a place of truth is palpable.?

Embracing 100% of the truth promotes a deeper understanding of our role within a broader context. Everyone involved realizes the organization's interdependence on their excellence. It sharpens a vision for an improved future, even if the current state seems satisfactory. Those on the periphery are activated contributing improved clarity for all on where they fit and if they fit, fostering inclusivity. Truth doesn't just spotlight the areas of improvement; it also highlights what—or who—might be holding us back.?

There’s power in the discomfort that arises when leaders embrace the truth, and throughout my book, I show leaders how they can prioritize this unifying lever. The exercises, practical guidance, and analogies housed will empower you with the essential tactics for demanding and modeling 100% of the truth.?

I am thrilled to announce that my new book,?Belonging Rules, publishes September 26, 2023.

You can pre-order it here: https://bit.ly/3VYo6Nr

Thank you!