//honesty//

Years before leadership development was a “thing,” an invitation appeared on my desk to join a cohort for new leaders where I worked. The offer came from the person at the top and, therefore, included no RSVP request.

The group gathered for an hour every other Tuesday afternoon for 45 minutes to discuss whatever topic the leader shared. Our first meeting started with these words: “Never pretend. You’ll be tempted to so that people will respect you, think you’re smart, or believe that you know what you’re talking about. You will eventually regret it. The truth always catches up with you.”

Great words for leadership -- and for life overall.

Conversation followed about the high road of modesty that few leaders take, even though their teams love it when they do. Ego, conversely, drives a person down the express lane to burnout.

A simpler, better path: Honest self-awareness rather than self-promotion. Such an approach earns respect that will last. Ancient wisdom says it well:

“Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor.”

©Copyright 2021, David Staal, all rights reserved