Leaders know the importance of having someone in their lives who

"Leaders know the importance of having someone in their lives who will unfailingly and fearlessly tell them the truth." These words by Warren Bennis capture the essence of leadership as more than a position of power—it is a position of accountability. The true leader, according to Bennis, is one who surrounds themselves with individuals who are brave enough to speak the truth, even when it is uncomfortable or challenging. In a world where authority often breeds flattery and adulation, a true leader must have the wisdom to recognize the value of having a voice of honesty in their inner circle. This voice serves as a check against blindness and hubris, ensuring that the leader remains grounded and aligned with the principles of integrity and truth.

In the ancient world, truth-telling was seen as a cornerstone of wise leadership. Socrates, one of the greatest philosophers in history, served as an example of the kind of fearless truth-teller that a leader requires. Socrates was known for his relentless pursuit of truth, questioning the established norms of Athenian society and urging leaders and citizens alike to reflect deeply on their values and morality. His method of questioning, known as the Socratic method, was designed to reveal the truth behind people’s beliefs, even if it meant exposing uncomfortable truths. Socrates did not seek to flatter the powerful but to expose them to the rigor of self-examination. In this way, he became the kind of guide whose role in leadership was indispensable, for he made it clear that the pursuit of truth was the highest form of leadership.

Plato, his student, in his writings, emphasized the importance of the philosopher-king, a leader who rules not for personal gain but for the common good, guided by the truth of justice and wisdom. However, even this idealized figure required the presence of those who would speak the truth without fear or favor. Plato understood that a leader, even one chosen for their virtue and intellect, could easily fall prey to the seductive pull of power and self-interest if not kept in check by those brave enough to challenge them. Aristotle, in his ethical writings, recognized the importance of moral integrity in leadership, and that such integrity was maintained only by the presence of truth-tellers in the leader’s life—individuals who could show the leader where they may have veered off course or lost sight of their greater purpose.

In modern history, Abraham Lincoln offers a powerful example of a leader who embraced the importance of having truthful voices around him. Lincoln, during the American Civil War, was surrounded by a group of advisors known as the Team of Rivals—men who disagreed with him on many issues but whose candor he valued deeply. Lincoln was known for seeking the unvarnished truth, even when it was painful, because he understood that the choices he made would impact the future of the nation. His leadership during the Civil War was marked by humility and an openness to being corrected. One of Lincoln’s most trusted advisors, William Seward, was known to challenge him directly, offering opinions that were often contrary to Lincoln’s own, but Lincoln valued this honesty as essential for his own growth and for the greater good of the country.

The importance of truth-telling within leadership extends beyond political figures to any domain of authority. Consider Nelson Mandela, who, after being released from prison, led South Africa through its difficult transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy. Mandela surrounded himself with individuals who were willing to speak the truth, even when it was painful or controversial. He did not allow flattery or the pleasing of others to guide his decisions. Instead, he listened to voices that challenged him, that reminded him of the sacrifices made by others and the greater need for justice and equality. Mandela knew that to lead with true integrity, he had to trust those who would tell him the hard truths, no matter how difficult the circumstances.

Bennis' quote emphasizes that the truth is not always pleasant, and a leader who cannot accept it is a leader who will ultimately fail. True leadership involves a willingness to confront uncomfortable realities and to change course when necessary. The lesson is clear: leaders must be grounded in truth if they are to fulfill their role effectively. This means inviting honesty into your circle, encouraging those around you to speak candidly, even at the risk of discomfort. A leader must listen with humility, recognizing that no one, no matter how high their position, is beyond correction or growth.

In practical terms, this means cultivating a leadership style that is receptive to feedback and honest criticism. It requires actively seeking out diverse opinions and welcoming voices that may challenge your own views. Leaders should encourage a culture of openness, where truth is valued above agreement or personal comfort. By doing so, they create a space where both they and their teams can grow, learn, and evolve. Just as Socrates embraced the truth, even when it led him to dangerous places, so too should we be willing to risk comfort in order to uphold truth. By seeking those who will speak the truth, we ensure that our leadership remains just, wise, and moral.

Thus, let us heed Bennis' wisdom and remember that truth is not only the cornerstone of great leadership but also the foundation upon which we build a more just and compassionate world. Let us lead with integrity, and surround ourselves with those who will keep us true to our deepest principles, knowing that only by fearing nothing but the truth can we truly lead with honor and wisdom.