How do you lead others who don’t share the same life experiences as you?
The challenge for leaders is to take everyone on the journey, not just those who are like them. My definition of leadership is when others choose to follow you in the absence of power, authority, or position, because they believe in you and the direction you want to take them. I think many people report to bosses, but not necessarily to leaders. Leaders may not hold formal power, but they have the influence to inspire and move people. As leaders, we must invest time in learning about the lived experiences of others.
Satisfy your interests
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) can be divided into two distinct parts, positions and interests, as they serve as the profound lens through which we understand human dynamics. Positions are the things we say we want to achieve within DE&I initiatives, for example, advocating for equal pay, diverse representation in leadership, or implementing inclusive policies. However, beneath these explicit stances lie the intricate web of interests: the intricate tapestry of motivations, insecurities, aspirations, and historical contexts that shape our perspectives and fuel our advocacy. On the other hand, interests delve into the nuanced nuances of human experience, exploring the depths of our collective psyche to uncover the underlying desires for belonging, respect, and fairness. They are the silent orchestrators of our outward expressions, guiding our choices and actions as we navigate the complex terrain of diversity and inclusion. I think to truly comprehend the essence of DE&I efforts, one must excavate beyond the surface-level declarations of positions and delve into the rich landscape of interests, where the true essence of human connection and understanding resides.