Telling the Truth May be the Best Answer

Chicago Bears Head Coach Lovie Smith has been taking some heat this week for his decision during Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions to go for a touchdown on 4th and goal rather than kick a sure field goal to take the lead.

The decision not only backfired against the Bears, who failed to score on the play, it also left the Bears in a position to lose at the end of the game when a controversial call by one of the Refs nullified what otherwise would have been a game-winning score for Detroit.

Lovie has dug in his heels and claims he would still make the same call if he had it to do over again. He should stop digging.

Why can't leaders understand that sometimes it's better to tell the truth? It's better to admit a mistake and explain why you tried something and why it didn't work then to pretend you still believe you were right. But don't try to suggest it wasn't a mistake.

Not every mistake needs to be broadcast, but key decisions that leave employees or team members scratching their heads create more questions about one's leadership than simply admitting you blew it.

I'm sure Lovie had some good reasons for trying to get the ball in the end zone instead of kicking a field goal, including instilling confidence in his offense had they succeeded. I'm also sure that if they had scored the TD I wouldn't be writing this.

But those pale when compared to points on the board at a critical time in the game. Leaders need to tell it straight and stop making up stories, or others may start making up stories about them.

I'm curious if you think Lovie should acknowledge he made the wrong choice?

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