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Seek Advice from Those Who Disagree
Leadership / Advice · Updated Apr 2026
The most valuable feedback comes from people who will tell you you're wrong.
Why This Matters
- Yes-people feel comfortable but lead to blind spots.
- Your position as a leader means people self-censor around you.
- The problems you don't hear about are the ones that will hurt you.
How to Find Dissenters
- Explicitly ask for disagreement: "What am I missing? What could go wrong?"
- Build relationships with people who think differently from you.
- Create safety for dissent. Never punish someone for an honest challenge.
- Seek out people from different backgrounds and disciplines.
How to Use Their Input
- Listen without defending.
- Look for the kernel of truth, even if the delivery is rough.
- You don't have to agree, but you must consider it honestly.
- Thank people for disagreeing. It takes courage.
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