When Leaders Speak Their Truth

I read a really interesting article by Dennis Sparks. The article talks about ways to tell the truth and the results of speaking the truth in the spirit of learning.  Sparks discusses the power of the leader’s voice and how it doesn’t come from the tone or the volume but from its authenticity.  Forcing people to believe what you are saying is different from authentically capturing people’s hearts and minds. Sparks points out a formidable distinction between “the truth” and “my truth;” that “my truth” is when values and opinions are shared with a willingness to be influenced by what others think.  “The truth” is proclaimed in a manner that denies others the opportunity to see further points of view and “suppresses dialogue and learning” (Sparks, 2008).  I have often taken the stand that people don’t always want to hear the truth and therefore many adults will “sugar coat” their values and opinions in order to be less harsh. However, I find this misleading and can, more often times than not, lead to more resistance or false predicaments.  The biggest thing I took away from Sparks’ advice is that the truth should be spoken in hopes of facilitating teaching and learning.

Sparks, D.  (2008).  When leaders speak their truth.  Leading Through Learning, 1(7).  Retrieved from http://www.smartlearningcommunity.net