The Stories in Our Heads (Fact vs. Meaning)

Overview
This article discusses the common trap of mistaking facts for the meanings we assign to them. It uses a mountain-climbing metaphor to show how CEOs (or leaders) provide a vision (the map) that must be adapted when reality (the terrain) changes, helping readers understand how to construct meaning responsibly.

Key Takeaways

• Facts are observable events; meanings are personal interpretations.
• Leaders should recognize the gap between the map (vision) and the terrain (reality).
• Adjusting the vision based on new information is essential for effective leadership.
• Using shared metaphors creates common language for teams to navigate uncertainty.

Who Would Benefit

• CEOs and founders of startups.
• Engineering managers and technical leaders.
• Coaches and consultants working with leadership teams.
• Anyone interested in improving decision-making and communication.

Frameworks and Methodologies

• Metaphor-based communication (startup as mountain expedition).
• Vision-execution feedback loop (top-down vision, bottom-up adjustment).