Truth is what we say it is.
We leaders need this newer definition of truth. The old way is ruining things.
Thinking of truth in the traditional way–that is, as an absolute–always gets us into trouble. Old-style truth has us looking for the “right” answer instead of looking for the best answer. It pits people against one another instead of inviting them to find the superior solutions that come only in collaboration. We see everywhere the dysfunction caused by our addiction to old truth: in governments, among nations and communities, in our businesses, at home, and (importantly) within ourselves.
Depending on how you take it, this new statement about truth is either a threat or a gift. It implies that disagreement–even deep disagreement–is natural and that discussion is necessary. But it also promises dramatic solutions and benefits. We can start by simply asking others to say aloud what’s important to them.
More deeply, this newer version of truth shows us that we are our own jailers and emancipators. What we say is true about ourselves or the world binds us or sets us free. We can start applying this new version of truth to our lives by simply stating out loud what we want.
In your corner,
Mike
PS: I am not saying what’s true or false. I am asking us to open our definition of what it means for something to be true.
Very timely. Thanks for posting this reminder. I shared this with friends on Facebook.
Thank you, David. I think reminders are just what’s needed. 🙂