Many years ago, some of my colleagues and I would joke about various talking points executed in the oh-so many meetings we attended. What was ever striking about those talking points was the lack of conviction and sincerity.
So why the problem?
At some level we crossed over the line of danger when it comes to our words-spoken and written. So much so, that many inside of organizations, families, churches, communities, and governments are jaded. We've blurred the picture of what is real and what is fiction. Regrettable leaders now feel comfortable using words in truth and lie. They see this time as one meant for convenience and opportunity.
Is there hope here?
The short answer is yes. But the following needs to be adopted:
- Stop ceding your voice to those who think they're smarter than you. Often-times they're not and should never be given the power to smother you. It's a basic human thing that is bigger than a position, a title or career security.
- Stop allowing fame and fortune to cause you to turn the ether on. The courageous and integrity driven folks are often never on Oprah. But if we only see fame and fortune as valid, how will we recognize the "real" and authentic?
- Stop living someone else's life. I wear a size 40 jacket, you wear a size 42, so why should you try wearing my jacket? Your size is what you were meant to wear. And by the way you'll be happier.
- Stop listening to the negative voices in your head. Specifically, the type that cause you to run and hide. Negative voices are inherently evil.
- Start demanding honesty from those that lead you, serve you or ask you for your money. You're worth it!