Real Leaders Don’t Lie

“Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom." - Thomas Jefferson

Why do some people think they can get away with lying? Because sometimes they do, for awhile. But in the end, it all comes out. And as sure as the sun sets, the consequences hit. Disappointment. Lost trust. Unnecessary pain.

Malcom Gladwell’s latest book, Talking with Strangers highlights the surprising truth that we’re often deceived by strangers (even criminals) by a phenomenon called our “truth default”. This is the assumption of good intent, that we generally assume we’re dealing with someone who’s basically good, and who would never intentionally lie.

But what do you do when someone you know, like your manager, is lying to you? 

I heard of a senior VP in a Fortune 50 company who would tell everyone he managed every year that he was going to retire. This would inevitably get their hopes up for promotion for when he would leave, then they would inevitably assume opportunities would open up. So they’d stick around and hope for the best. Then he’d stay. And he’d say the same thing the next year. Then he’d stay again and do it all over again. It’s been 10 years, and he’s still not retired.

That’s called lying.

It’s time to call it what it is, and stop pretending. 

Real leaders don’t lie.

Here’s what they actually do:

They embody the truth. They love it, and live it every day. Not only are they their authentic self, they are true. True to reality, to the best in themselves, and to sharing the truth with clarity and power. They’re not afraid of the truth, they don’t hide from it or guard things with secrecy when there’s no need. This inspires trust in them with others. Invaluable and priceless trust that fuels change in the world.

They’re open and transparent. No need to hide anything, there’s no cover up with them. They’ll never be caught for anything major because they’re all about integrity. It’s deep in their soul, something they’d rather die for than earn an extra buck. They’d rather face their children at home and lay their head down at night knowing they’ve given it all in full honesty than exchange that for millions in dishonest dollars.

They appreciate those who challenge them. They embrace feedback and explore criticism, knowing it polishes them, and tests them—but will never break them. They’re never broken completely because they believe in a world of beautiful possibilities, and they build that future knowing full well it takes total trust in them. Trust that their word is their bond.

What above stands out most to you?

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