How can any company know if its processes, products, people are safe? Only if everyone is watching and telling the truth. The first part can be assumed; the second cannot.
Margaret HeffernanRead
Openness isn't the end. It's the beginning.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Openness is not a final goal, but rather the first step towards greater understanding and collaboration.
Margaret Heffernan's quote emphasizes that being open, whether it be to ideas, feedback, or collaboration, is not a destination, but the starting point for deeper interactions and progress. It suggests that embracing openness can lead to more significant achievements and connections, as it fosters an environment of trust and innovation.
Themes
OpennessBeginningUnderstandingCollaborationChange
In practice
Example use cases
In a workshop on team dynamics, this quote serves to highlight the importance of open communication.
More from Margaret Heffernan
All quotes →Most executives I know are so action-oriented, or action-addicted, that time for reflection is the first casualty of their success.
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Once you have power, you are inevitably surrounded by people who have their own agendas and will tell you whatever advances them.
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If the company depends entirely on you - your creativity, ingenuity, inspiration, salesmanship or charisma - nobody will want to buy it. The risk and the dependency are too great.
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Those in powerless positions aren't about to complain about bullying bosses, abusive supervisors or corrupt co-workers. There is no safe way to do so and no process that promises redress.
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Bosses and leaders everywhere should cherish the people who bring them bad news, disappointing data or hard problems.
Margaret HeffernanRead
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