Dissenting voice

Ever wondered why leaders fall easier and harder than most others? And I'm not just talking about public persona. I'm talking about making extraordinary business blunders, political suicide decisions and the likes. I'm talking about making highly stupid decisions that seem to defy simple logic.

The answer lies in the counsel or the people he/she has that are encircling about like bees to nectar. Day in and day out, they chant the mantra - "You are great, you are right and you sit on the throne at the centre of the world." Their role is nothing more than sucking-up, for it is their only way to climb the ladder of success, given their lack of ability to do so otherwise.

But a true leader will always look out for the dissenting voice, the one that whispers quietly, "I think you're making a mistake", all this, despite the tide. The leader will take time to listen and contemplate objectively.

For it is true that only a friend will tell you want you wouldn't want to hear, even if it means losing your favour.

Last but not least, never overestimate your own ability to think clearly "in the midst" because with so many encircling bees, even lies becomes "truths".

This then, is the real test of one's ability as a true leader - whether he/she can accept that dissenting voice? You know, the one that says you're not right after all!