So, who knows us the best? That is, who are the people that witness us as we are to them in as complete a way as possible? It’s not ourselves, for sure, and we are not the witch asking our captive mirror, “who is the fairest one of all?” It is those we live with, our friends, perhaps, even our associates, and most certainly those we call our “Inner Circle” at work. They KNOW us.
If a leader, even a leader of leaders, we are on stage and bright lights highlight our flaws and strengths to these select few. Whether one or twelve that a leader considers their Inner Circle, they know their leader. Does a mate know their mate? Do children know their parents? Whether shared or not, we are all known by others close to us so much better than we know ourselves.
If this is true, as I’m convinced it is, how much better would our relationships be if we could be candid, vulnerable, and able to have dialogue with each other? Bear in mind that dialogue, when it takes place, creates a level playing field. There is no pyramid, no leader, no subordinate, and no child. Only people sharing thoughts and feelings. Is there a more powerful experience for people to have? All involved benefit. So, the leader who leads people is on stage even if their inner circle is only one. And like the King that believed he was dressed in elegant finery but was naked to the crowd, leaders are naked to their mates, children, and subordinates who are important to them.
It is said that nothing significant is easy. Relationships that foster honest growth are never easy, but most people can make it doable. It takes the leader I write of and have taught over many years. It demands that leaders be vulnerable, as witnessed by their key relationships. This becomes mutual and fulfilling.
Sy
