Truth vs. Comfort for the Business Leader

In their latest book, Confronting Reality,
Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan explore the business discipline of seeing
reality – the essential truth of a situation – when the news is bad.

In the opening, they tell of managers of a US Midwest-based
business who are moving the facts about in various combinations to
reveal everything but the essential truth – that the operation must
relocate to China, and soon, to remain competitive.

Where do you stand on seeking the truth about your business –
especially when reality bites? Do you want to know reality regardless
of your personal stake or comfort, short-term? Or do you want to know
reality only to the extent that you feel comfortable to deal with it?

Once you see reality, do you take decisive action for the future
good of your organization and its stakeholders, or do you find ways to
put off the inevitable because, again, it is safer or more comfortable
right now?

We don’t have a pat answer or a quick cure for business leaders
facing such moments of truth. In the choice between seeking reality and
seeking comfort, you are really examining your values – that which you
act on even when it is easier to do nothing.

Business leaders who value truth seek reality about where they are!
The REAL SITUATION! AND they know their goal and outcomes! This level
of clarity inspires support from colleagues and employees, recruiting a
team for the hard work ahead.

Keep it real.