Issues of Truth

Truth—not information—can seem in short supply. And, at times, it can seem that there are multiple versions of the truth out there to choose from. There seems to be more cynicism and doubt than ever before. Open minds and uncensored opinions are harder to find, especially in times of change. We have ever more change, and the new initiatives just keep on coming. Under these conditions, the majority of people opt for diplomacy and safety by becoming “good news” people. Getting at what is really going on is increasingly challenging for everyone, and the higher up the chain of command we are, the more circumspect people will be with us. It is okay to be upset about bad news, but if we want people to level with us and tell the truth, we need to ensure that we keep the communication channels open and uncontaminated if we are to be successful.
 
• Stop killing messengers and cherish uncensored opinion.
• Remember the higher your status, the more circumspect people are likely to be.
• Invite debate but be realistic in times of significant change.
• The quality of truth spoken is often in proportion to the risk the person needs to take when saying it.
 
Our political charter needs to acknowledge the impact that the current big change initiative has on everyone’s ability to be candid and tell the truth.

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