"Boss Is Always Right" Right? Wrong - Here's Why

“Boss is always right” is a statement that’s oftentimes used in a very negative context. What is the reason for this being so common a statement and its infamy? What do people mean when they use this phase, is that a whole hearted expression of a true sentiment or are theysimply being sarcastic? There's a hesitance amongst most employees to openly share their thoughts that might be different from popular opinion. This arises from the basic human tendency to followthe herdand not be whistle-blower; in other words, we all love harmony we just do not want to upset that. On the flip side; what are the implications of keeping quiet when you've an idea that's different from that of your boss's or the majority's? This is the curse of authority, people do not want to speak their mind; the cost of disrupting the harmony might be too high for most people. The result could be that you'll fail to convince your team/boss from making a costly mistake. Most leaders these days; at least the good ones step aside and let you do your thing. They realize that just exercising authority to get their ideas executeddoes not guarantee unwavering commitment; and that it is collective imaginations that wins wholehearted involvement. As in the case of Bridgewater; a hedge fund that's made the most money for their clientsin the history of the industry.Ray Dalio, the founder goes great lengths to ensure people share their critical opinions.

"The greatest tragedy of mankind comes from the inability of people to have thoughtful disagreement to find out what's true." - Ray Dalio The success behind Bridgewater is attributed to the culture of inviting dissenting opinions from every employee in the organization. This allows them to think differently from everyone else and could even anticipate the2007 crash and warn clients about it. Inmost modern corporate scenarios today, leaders are in need of new perspectives, opinions and expertise. Also, it is important that vouchfor your ideas because even great ideas do not get the attention it deserves if not driven well enough. If astartup that comes up with a great product; the glory is abouthow well they can put their innovation or idea to the customerswith great marketing efforts? Thisroad in pursuit of happiness is rugged; but then there is the happiness of pursuit. Ask any entrepreneur; successful or not will agree to this. Next time you're tempted to quote "boss is always right" and back off with youridea; pause and realize that maybe you're letting someone blind walk offacliff and you'renot doing athing about it.