In many aspects of society there is a lack of cohesion. This mess creates conflict, indecision, worry, and missteps. How can we coordinate the efforts of so many in ways that truly spell positive development and change? What can we do?
In some ways the cacophony of efforts paralyzes me--who deserves my allegiance and support, who is telling the truth, and who really knows what is right and good for us?
As I think about this tangled web of life, I believe that this is the result of the information age that has centered us in the midst of vast amounts of information at every moment which makes life far more complicated than in days of old. This complication does not have to make life worse because in so many ways our access to information empowers us and enriches our lives, and that is good, but in other ways, the information glut can be confusing, troubling, and misleading.
Creating better information systems and routines is one way that we can create greater cohesion and a better response to the massive amounts of information available. Also, reviewing and renewing infrastructure in every organization including roles, decision making systems, and focus will help.
How can we specifically do this?
Create a trust-worthy expert team to help you live life, make decisions, and do good work
Too many are too quick to trust online information and news without the due diligence of good research. Instead we have to create trust-worthy expert teams to help us live our lives with honest information and good intention. A few rules I use for my own research include the following:
- Consider the credentials and experience of those sharing the news and information
- Make sure at least three reputable experts agree with what is being said
- Stay abreast of the news as even tried-and-true facts will change over time as new information is revealed
- Does the information serve all well or is it focused on enriching one group alone? Inclusive facts and information are generally more truthful and less dishonest.