Too Much Truth
Kyetu Catalyst. A spark to ignite change!
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Welcome to the Kyetu Catalyst! Today, we delve into the heart of leadership and transparency with a concept that I coined called "too much truth."
I remember a specific moment that perfectly encapsulates the concept of how "too much truth" was born. I was in a boardroom, presenting to potential agency partners. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as we delved into the state of our business. I didn’t just highlight our achievements; I laid bare the challenges, the struggles, the 'ugly' parts. As I spoke, I could see the unease growing on the faces across the table.
After the meeting, as we debriefed with our internal team, I looked at everyone and simply said, "we gave them too much truth."
This phrase became a team mantra, symbolizing the discomfort that raw honesty can evoke. It wasn’t about undermining confidence; it was about presenting reality as it is. And in the case of this anecdote, the business we were presenting was really struggling.
Transparency in the corporate world often feels like a double-edged sword. While many prefer to highlight only the positives, sharing the complete picture—including the challenges and setbacks—is essential.
“Great teams do not hold back with one another. They are unafraid to air their dirty laundry. They admit their mistakes, their weaknesses, and their concerns without fear of reprisal.”
For a deeper understanding of the importance of transparency in leadership, I highly recommend the book Dare to Lead by Brené Brown. Brown explores the power of vulnerability and transparency in creating strong and effective leadership.
When it comes to the practicalities of embracing "too much truth," it’s essential to understand how this transparency can empower others. Imagine withholding critical information from your team, even if done with good intentions. This act, whether intentional or not, strips them of the ability to make informed decisions. By sharing the unvarnished truth, you provide them with the knowledge they need to navigate reality effectively. It’s about fostering trust and respect through an egalitarian approach to information dissemination.
Now, consider the discomfort that often accompanies full transparency. Many people prefer the comfort of their preconceived narratives because it provides a sense of control and predictability. When faced with the unfiltered truth, there’s a natural defense mechanism—a visceral reaction against the disruption of their cognitive equilibrium. It’s crucial to present the truth in a way that is digestible and actionable, guiding others through the discomfort and helping them to reframe their narratives without feeling destabilized.
Adhering to a policy of full transparency aligns with a deeper ethical stance. It’s a commitment to authenticity and integrity, ensuring that all stakeholders operate from the same factual basis. This approach, while challenging, fosters a culture of accountability and trust. Valuing truth over convenience and understanding that real progress is built on a foundation of honesty are vital principles to uphold in any organization.
Ready do a little deep work? Grab your journal and a pen, and take a minute to jot down your thoughts about the following questions. Think of a time when you were either the giver or receiver of "too much truth." How did it make you feel? What were the outcomes? How can you apply transparency more effectively in your personal or professional life?
With transparency, despite the potential for discomfort, there is ethical leadership and empowerment. It challenges the status quo and leads to a more informed, resilient, and dynamic organization.
“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.”
Thank you for joining us on today's Kyetu Catalyst. Please share our podcast with family, friends, and in your social networks. You just might be someone else’s spark to ignite change!
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