I've written it here before, but I'm compelled by recent events to shout it out again: metaphors matter!
They're not merely figures of speech and writing, stylistic expressions that enrich communication. Metaphors structure people's thinking. Metaphors condition our sympathies. Metaphors direct our attention and influence our decisions and actions.
James Autry, retired CEO of Meredith Corporation wrote:
"Becoming a manager has much to do with learning the metaphors; becoming a good manager has much to do with using the metaphors; and becoming a leader has much to do with changing the metaphors."
Leaders set the tone for their people. It's time for them to step up and change today's bullshit business and political rhetoric.
There is no place for violent, hunting and war-like metaphors in today's world. War destroys! War creates division. War sucks, plain and simple.
Business and community service should enrich and advance life. They should be enjoyable endeavors that bring happiness to all people.
Screw Sun Tzu and his Art of War. To hell with killing our competition; they're our neighbors. People are not targets, fish to be reeled in, or territories to be captured.
We are our metaphors. Be a true leader and use them wisely. Our businesses, communities, and children's futures depend on it.
Posted January 17, 2012
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Tom is timely, thought provoking and all about the new brand vision packaged as a Seinfeld stand up. I went to school on his ideas.
Jeff Taylor, Founder, Monster.com and CEO, Eons.
When Tom Asacker writes, I read. Opportunity Screams is the right message for the right time.
Tom Peters
I used to think that metaphors is used for sugar coating or passing a figure of speech. Now, I am enlightened. Thank you for sharing this.
Posted by: form an llc | February 07, 2012 at 09:51 PM