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NAME THE ELEPHANT
It’s Taking Up Way Too Much Room
When there’s an elephant in the room, introduce him.
—RANDOLPH PAUSCH
As a consultant, I often go on safari. No jeeps or rangers needed. I’m not on a game reserve. I’m in your office, looking for a supersized mammal. “An elephant in the room” is the issue with no name. It’s a term used to describe a situation, question, problem, or controversial issue that most, or all, of the people involved know about but don’t discuss for fear of the potential consequences. They prefer to ignore it, hoping it will vanish. When the elephant’s presence is felt but everyone is denying its existence, there’s ...
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