Is history truth? Commonly accepted history is truth, today. But, what is the truth?
History Is Story Told By People
People have perspective that can shift the way a story is told. Changing history.
When I travel and speak with well-travelled people, I have heard different versions of the same story (history) in different places around the world.
Part of why I enjoy and recommend travel is the wealth of knowledge and experience available. In fact, knowledge that is extremely difficult to get exposure to. Unless, you are there with the people in their culture to experience it.
Changing Story To Meet Strategy
I have worked for a boss that purposely changed story to meet strategy. This was called ‘changing the narrative’.
He was quite skilled at this. And, it became very difficult to maintain a grasp on facts in this environment.
Wait a minute.
What is a fact then?
What is a historical fact?
Truth or Fact
A fact is something that is known or proven to be true. I like the ‘proven to be true’ part. Yes, this requires evidence.
Historical fact therefore should mean there was evidence proving the fact that this story happened. Moreover, that the story is accurate.
Learned Strategy
Many organizations and individuals have learned how to change the narrative as part of strategy.
Their strategy to drive change.
Truth has never been harder to find than it is today. Additionally, this shift is not only occurring in social media. In fact, it is everywhere including our children’s textbooks.
In some ways we may be benefiting from the availability of information on the internet. Because, it allows us to shift this trend.
It is true, it allows us to research and find a different perspective. And, even at times find fact.
You should demand fact to prove stories.
Additionally, get in the habit of looking for evidence.
Beware the history your boss or customer tells; that narrative may be a new perspective on a story which may become commonly accepted.
This action could affect, at best, your reputation. At worst, your livelihood.
Change the story and you change perception; change perception and you change the world.
Jean Houston
(Re)Search For Truth
In my personal life I know I can research and gather facts to prove or disprove a story.
In my work environment I do not have this same access to information. Additionally, the commonly accepted history is controlled.
The messaging inside corporations and governments is controlled.
Is There Ever An Appropriate Time To Change Narrative?
I think there is yes. For example, when doing internal work to face fears and overcome them.
Additionally, in developing new behaviors a change in narrative, reframing an issue can be a very powerful tool.
In these examples you are doing it for yourself and for your benefit.
You have decided to do this.
This is a very powerful tool for your own personal use in achieving your True Best Self.
Who Benefits From This Version of Truth
Conversely, in the other examples I have given someone else is doing it. Potentially, for their benefit. As a consequence, you are not aware that is has happened.
A Tool
I have learned a strategy to counter this risk of false information that has served me well.
When I face a significant event at work. Moreover, when I have had a conversation with a boss or colleague at work that left me feeling uncomfortable, I keep notes.
I Listen To My Own Judgement
I retain my version of the story in writing and I date it.
If the narrative ever shifts potentially affecting reputation or career history, I have my notes to refer to. Yes, if only to at least know the accuracy of my recollection of events.
Unfortunately, I have needed these notes more than once in my career. With this in mind, I sincerely hope you never need any notes you retain. Additionally, if you finish your career without learning what I meant in writing this, you worked for a very good employer.
Recommend this employer to others.
Early in my career these records were kept in ink and paper form. However, I now keep what I call “Note to File” emails that I send myself.
The emails are dated and ca not be manipulated. These become part of corporate history. Indeed, if it is ever needed.
Integrity Maintains Truth
Because I act with integrity and ensure the integrity of my record keeping, they will stand up if needed.
In a transparent and professional work environment this type of corporate record should not be required. Unfortunately, we do not live in those times right now.
Outside of work I have gotten into the habit of research. It is true, I try to gather facts from the source. Additionally, I separating fact from fiction.
It Is Elementary
This is part of what we were taught in school, how to research.
It is a necessary skill in our world today.
The importance of seeking truth applies universally to: financial decisions, investment choices, news, politics, and your rights.
More now than ever.
Additionally, all of our posts in the True Best Self Series can be found here.
Finally, more great content can be discovered on our Youtube channel.
I would like to add that finding good sources in research can be very difficult. Having looked at several sources, if 2 or 3 agree then that should indicate truth in a matter. What we rely on for facts in our daily lives is usually media generated and not always accurate. Question media sources, question all sources for authenticity before believing their take on any event or story.
I agree with the ‘keeping track of the narrative’ that way you can review and revisit if questioned even though I’ve never done it.
I’m surprised at how four individuals in a family can remember the same event so differently, the thread is similar but the details are of personal interpretation. I understand that each time we remember an event it changes narrative a bit in the telling and then the mind remembers that new narrative. Where did the actual truth of the event go? hmmmm, figure me this!
Excellent additions, thank you!