Who Do You Surround Yourself With?
Question and Answer Time
Q1. Do you ever wonder how political leaders come to believe certain things about certain topics/issues?
A1. The people in their inner circle…their advisors.
Q2. Do you ever watch a news report and wonder how people with diametrically opposed views use that exact same story to support their position?
A2. Confirmation bias.
Q3. Why am I raising this issue?
A3. Because as leaders, it is very important we recognize that we are influenced and impacted by the people around us, that those around us tell us what they think we want to hear, and we must be intentional about seeking input and advice from a variety of people with varying perspectives.
(This is somewhat related to my discussion about how our personal perspectives impact how we view things in the blog “If you are a hammer, then everything is a nail“.)
To strengthen your leadership, be intentional about the people from whom you seek input and advice. Admit their (and your) biases. If you can, and I strongly recommend you do, find an advisor who is objective, has no agenda, and whose sole focus is your success!