I think it was Nelson Mandela who said, “A person who will perpetuate the lie of another, or by their silence endorse it, can not be trusted to tell the truth themselves.”
My father was not quite as eloquent as Nelson Mandela. The Colonel said, “Know what the truth is, kid. Always tell the truth, and the truth will not steer you wrong.” As significant leaders, it is our responsibility to always tell the truth. And that may sound simpler than it is because sometimes the truth is hard to tell or hear.
And sometimes, the truth is not what we believe.
Now, I understand what you might be thinking. In fact, I’ve had multiple conversations recently about the difference between “the truth” and “my truth.” And there may be some flexibility in that. It’s trendy right now to talk about living “your truth.” But sometimes, there is a difference between “your truth” and “THE truth.” Especially in today’s world, when a fabrication can spread with the click of a social media share button, be willing to do your own research. Educate yourself on all sides of a subject or issue – not just the side you know will justify your opinion. If you are willing to look at all perspectives of a situation, that will probably bring you to what “THE truth” is. Then always tell the truth – even when it’s uncomfortable to do so. That’s what significant leaders do.
Read Lauren’s Whitepaper on The Nine Essentials of Significant Leadership.
