Page 19 - 2018 August Voices

TERRY TALKS

Straight Talk

Terry Beard

Straight Talk as defined by the dictionary My style has been met at times with mixed
is speech which is very honest and direct. reactions, by those who are not guided by
When we share “straight talk” with one another, “straight talk.” But those who operate by

we build bridges to better communication and being “straight talkers” help one another
better relationships. In my youth, I grew up to save time and energy by not wasting
going around and around the mulberry bush time scurrying around in cul de sacs.
never knowing if I was getting the runaround When the student is ready, the professor appears!

or hearing “straight talk.” Fortunately, I learned about kaizen from
I would like to suggest that many of us have Dr. Richard. Kaizen is the Japanese word for
grown up and are living a life of getting the “continuous improvement.” Kaizen is ongoing
runaround and not knowing what to believe. personal growth and development of oneself—

When we are not direct and 29honest from the CEO of any company to the assembly
with one another, we create an environment, line workers. From all ranks in any company,
which is uncomfortable and unclear at best. organization, or institution, it is essential for
In many situations when we receive less everyone to take responsibility and ownership

than straight talk, lack of clarity gnaws and of their personal growth and development.
erodes at our confidence and self-esteem. When we share “straight talk” with one
It has taken me many years to break away from
those who were giving me the runaround,

delivering less than “straight talk.” Once
I learned that I was entitled to
“straight talk,” I demanded it.
As I came to more and more

fully appreciate the power of
“straight talk,” I have vowed
to empower others with
“straight talk.”

In return, I know
when I am on the
receiving end of
“straight talk” or not.

20 ONE COMMUNITY