In July, I enjoyed 18 fabulous days in Sri Lanka!
I went in search of curry, Sri Lankan sweets, sunshine, and new experiences in a culture unfamiliar to me. I was also seeking insight, challenge, and space for reflection. Sri Lanka delivered on all counts – and more. From ancient architecture dating back to 300 BC to food that danced with flavour (those curries and tropical fruits!), stunning wildlife safaris, warm people, artisan products, and deep-rooted cultural practices.
Perhaps most inspiring was witnessing the healing that’s unfolding in the years since the end of the devastating civil war. A brilliant holiday – and a powerful shift in perspective.
Your Story Isn’t Always The Story
When I travel, I notice unfamiliar things and find myself wondering: What is that? Why do they do it like that? Who uses that… and why?
And without realising it, I answer my own questions, making up a story based on my experiences and assumptions. It becomes my version of truth about the place.
Talking to other travelers, I know I’m not the only one. We arrive full of knowledge from home, and leave ‘knowing’ new things – that might not be accurate at all!
This trip was different, because we had a guide – a local expert named Nauffer. He was on hand to translate our experiences and explain cultural context (including the questions I didn’t even know I had). His thoughtful interpretations revealed the gap between my story and the reality.
We Do This at Work Too
In the workplace, we observe something… and immediately interpret it based on our own values, beliefs, preferences, experience, and position. Then we mistake those interpretations as facts.
And without a ‘guide’ – someone to check assumptions, clarify meaning, or offer a different lens – those interpretations shape our decisions and relationships.
Where have you been caught out by this in the past week?
And… where have you been caught out and don’t even know it (yet)?
Three ways to practise Fearless Leadership® by aligning your story to shared Truth:
1) Find a guide
Identify someone (or a few someones) who can help complete the picture, translate intent, and challenge assumptions.
2) Get curious
Play lightly. Notice your interpretations and check them with others. Try: ‘I noticed X — how did you interpret that?’
3) Ask questions
Before settling on your version of the story, ask:
“When you did X, how were you hoping I’d interpret that?”
or
“I noticed X – how should I read that?”
Back to Sri Lanka… a few travel tips if you’re tempted:
Avoid peak season and head off the beaten track.
Find a brilliant local guide. **
Say yes to (almost) everything — especially what you can’t do at home.
Eat everything!
Choose accommodation with an inviting shared space — somewhere you’d be happy to sit, reflect, and chat with fellow travelers.
Lead fearlessly – whether you’re returning from the other side of the world or just the other side of town.
PS Are you planning a Sri Lanka adventure? I’m happy to recommend the travel company we used — and our wonderful guide Nauffer. (There is also another 756 photos I can show you!)
Go Fearlessly
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