We all know individuals who refuse to have anything to do with others who wear the wrong label.
This is why labels are of so little value when it comes to actually understanding another point of view.
If anything, the label is simply a convenient excuse to close our minds on the assumption that we already know what someone thinks.
It’s pretty tough to find common ground with people with whom we believe we cannot speak.
If we are serious about bridging that gap, we have to set aside our need to win.
Instead of trying to beat others over the head to convince them that they are wrong, we must focus on becoming leaders.
This kind of leadership doesn’t require a party or a label, but it does require that we develop a degree of personal depth and conviction.
This requires a willingness to prize truth above personal comfort.
This means that sometimes we must be willing to speak or acknowledge difficult truths that others do not wish to hear.
Doing so diplomatically is wise, but it is impossible to stand for anything without encountering genuine opposition.
It is much easier to remain cool and collected when we have a firm individual grasp of the subjects we’re discussing.
But that understanding requires the willingness to engage in independent research and study.
Bumper sticker slogans aren’t enough to enlighten us and keep us on course.
Leadership that inspires does away with the need to rely on labels.
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