Often we hear the phrase "think outside the box," meaning that we should look for new solutions to our problems by thinking creatively. The book "Leadership and Self-Deception" presents an additional concept of the box in which we find ourselves.
The authors explore the topic of self-deception through the scenario of the leaders of a major corporation explaining the problems associated with self-deception to one of their managers. The easy style and use of narrative and storytelling drive home the dangers of being "in the box" and the method for getting and staying out of the box.
"Self-Deception . . . blinds us to the true cause of problems, and once blind, all the 'solutions' we can think of will actually make matters worse." Expanding on this definition, self-deception pus us in a box where we see other people as problems and blame them for our own lack of productivity and success. We get in the box by commiting acts of "self-betrayal," defined as "an act contrary to what I feel I should do for another." From that point we begin to inflate our own virtues and demean others by focusing on them as problems. In this way we justify our own behaviors and attitudes and we stay in the box. When we open ourselves to seeing others as people with their own needs and strengths, we begin to get out of our boxes and are able to work together more effiently and productively.
The concepts laid out in "Leadership and Self-Deception" are applicable in every situation in life. Applying these ideas will make us better leaders, co-workers, employees, parents, spouses and friends. Take the time to read this book and help yourself get out of your box.
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