We all crave it, don’t we? That unfiltered, straight-to-the-face honesty. We long for people to lay it out, no mind games, no second-guessing. Just the raw, unadulterated truth. But here’s the kicker: are we really ready for it?
Think about it. How often do we truly listen, without our internal defences kicking in? How often do we digest the words, rather than immediately formulating a rebuttal? That sinking feeling in your stomach when someone tells you something you don’t want to hear? That’s the truth, and it’s often a tough pill to swallow.
Truth, as it turns out, is a lot like bitter medicine. It’s unpleasant, sometimes downright painful, but it’s the cure for our “disease of deniability.” We cling to comfortable illusions, but it’s the truth that sets us free.
David Nowak, in his insightful book “How Leaders Learn,” calls these brave souls “Truth Tellers.” He emphasises the vital importance of having these individuals in our inner circle. They’re the ones who cut through the noise, who don’t sugarcoat, and who tell us what we need to hear, not what we want to hear.
Reading that made me pause and reflect. Who are my truth tellers? Who are the people in my life that I trust to give it to me straight?
The Spectrum of Truth Tellers:
- Parents: Our first and often most persistent truth tellers. Growing up, we might have rolled our eyes, but hindsight reveals the wisdom in their words.
- Close Friends: Even within close friendships, true honesty is rare. Most friends tread lightly, afraid to rock the boat. But a select few will speak up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Spouses/Partners: The ultimate truth tellers. They see us at our best and worst, and they’re often the ones who hold up a mirror to our flaws.
- Good Bosses/Managers: In the workplace, a leader who values honesty creates a culture of trust and growth. For leaders, cultivating and empowering these truth tellers is crucial.
In my own life, my spouse is my primary truth teller, followed by a handful of close friends who have earned my trust. I’ve learned to listen, to really listen, without letting my biases cloud my judgment.
Who are your truth tellers? Do you truly listen to them? How does the truth make you feel?
Embracing the truth is a journey, not a destination. It requires courage, humility, and a willingness to step outside our comfort zones. But the rewards – growth, clarity, and genuine connection – are immeasurable.
#TruthTellers #Truth #SelfAwareness #HonestFeedback #Courage #EmotionalIntelligence
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