Myth-truths

What They Are

Myth-conceptions are probably the largest hurdles in the decision process. These are false or misleading beliefs, data, or opinions that participants hold and act on.

Myth-conceptions about the decision process include:

• " Change is only temporary, and we can return to our old ways soon."
• "All agendas are detrimental and secretive."
• "Power politics control decisions and ignore technical realities."
• " Policy changes on a whim."

Participants may not get involved because they may think that their participation won't matter. They may attempt to skew analyses because they believe this is the way to counter (or support) politics or agendas. Discussing these concepts openly will help foster the foundation of understanding needed for an effective decision process. Second guessing about the reaction of a decision maker or partner based on mythtruths promotes false logic and often leads down the wrong track. Decision makers rely on technical and professional input to provide the best information to make a decison, not the best-sounding information. You are not doing your job if you rely on mythtruth to influence study results or findings. People tend to jump to assumptions and make what they perceive as pleasing statements to avoid conflict. This can breed mythtruths and destroy credibility. People will remember who dragged them into the bramble bush while pretending to smell roses.

Go On

Dragon Tour Avoiding Failure <-------> Bad News