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Leadership and getting results in a complex plural society is an interesting paradox.  On one hand we want everyone to be involved and buy-in.  We also want results, now!  Without consideration of where people are today, what impact this could have on their perceived best interest, and personal freedom, we hold leaders accountable.  Somehow, someway, leaders are supposed to navigate, inform, negotiate, compromise, and deliver ideal results.  When I read this words I find myself naturally thinking about politics, but the challenge extends to sports, corporate life, and even extended families! 
 
As I watch various politicians measure their success it is interesting how the best at what they do always connect with the individual that others don’t think really matters.  It is as if they ignore the noise and demand to be involved by those who are the “insiders with power” and go directly to the average man and women on the street.  In sports it is the willingness to be a team player with the unsung unknown on the pitch.  In corporate life it is the willingness to stand up, take positions, and go with ideas that are good no matter how popular they are or who presented them because it is the “right” thing to do.  When this happens, leaders usually get results, often far exceeding anyone’s expectation.
 
As I analyze leadership success I find that people resonate with “truth” and intuitively share in the belief even though it may not be in their best interest.  The challenge for leadership lies in forming, shaping, and holding your message in alignment with truth.  Even if with positive intent it is never easy!
 
As I struggle to find the right compass encouragement comes from an old story.  When the shepherd pulls the flock together, “he leads them and they follow because they are familiar with his voice.  They won't follow a stranger's voice but will scatter because they aren't used to the sound of it.”  (John 10.4, 5)
 
Truth may be scarce but it is the key to the game of living and winning in life.