On Leadership and Looking the Dragon in the Eye

Leaders need to beware of reports that put a “happy face“ on bad news. Bad news needs to be exactly what it is. Any interpretation that is unrealistic prevents the leader from seeing clearly enough to take the right action. We have to cut through the positive spin. One of the principle responsibilities of the leader is to “look the dragon in the eye.” Closing your eyes doesn’t keep the dragon from devouring you.