Do We Want The Truth Anymore?

We generally think we want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth (so help me G_d) in all areas of our life. But do we really? These days many people run pretty hot and loose with the concept of truth. We’ve even come to accept the idea of Alternate Facts, at least in some forums.

The real truth is we want to hear or believe only what we want to hear or believe, to the point that we will only watch news channels that tell us what we want to hear and then assume that every opposing viewpoint is therefore an absolute lie. We don’t even entertain the idea that someone can be mistaken or misinformed anymore! The truth makes us feel good when it aligns with our values and make us feel bad when it doesn’t. So rather than feel bad and have to question whether change is needed in the environment or our own values, we just shift to “truth” (or a channel or a source) we like that makes us feel good and then avoid digging too deep into it.

In my industry, Executive Development, truth is necessary to advance the ball down the field, even when it hurts or runs contrary to our values. The Marines say, “Pain is weakness leaving the body”. While I don’t think growth always needs to be painful, I do think that a bit of discomfort is helpful and sometimes necessary to advance and grow. Truth is sometimes painful and uncomfortable and necessary for growth and improvement in nearly all areas of our lives and our business. Our interactions must be open and honest. The data we use to analyze productivity, performance, or finances must be complete and accurate. Our assessments of people in the organization have to be objective and fair. Failing any of these could cause grave damage to our people or even the whole company.

Getting back to a place where truth and honesty and integrity and loyalty are things we value and exemplify for our children, our employees, our customers, our competition, the community, and beyond should be a high priority. How else do we know when to buy something based on the label or the reviews or the manufacturer's claims of value and performance? How do we know it’s safe to get on that plane, or to go without a mask, or to get a shot, or to trust our partner? I think the best we can do is surround ourselves with good people. Set the best example we can. Face truth head-on and deal with it when required and hold people in our sphere to the same standard when possible.

What do you think? Please comment to further the conversation.

Dave Lakin is a nationally recognized Executive Development Coach and founder of Acacia Business Solutions. Are you an executive who wants to take your company to the next level? Do you want more engaged staff, emotionally committed customers, and leadership who executes and stays focused? The AddingZEROs executive development process on the 5 Disciplines will help you lay the groundwork for your company to add zeros. Contact Dave today to assist you in determining the service that will best move your company forward.

[email protected] | Acacia-Solutions.com | Linkedin.com/in/davelakin

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