MIND newsletter: Same same but different
Happy Saturday everyone! 😉
1. M (Challenge your mindset)
Having been involved in equity-centered work, I often find myself pondering the delicate balance between our shared similarities and our differences as human beings. We require both aspects to become better individuals, yet the challenge arises when one aspect thrives at the expense of others. More often than not, it ignites issues of inequality, discrimination, racism, and hatred.
A recent debate revolves around the concept of color blindness as an effective tool in combating racism. Some argue ‘yes,’ suggesting that if we could perceive skin color in the same way we perceive eye color, racism might cease to exist. After all, we rarely discriminate based on eye color, do we? But can the world truly be that simple? Are we truly prepared to be blind to difference?
Lately, I’ve been questioning the extent to which I, and we as a society, attempt to establish our uniqueness by clinging to trendy labels. We do so in the hopes of boosting our self-esteem, comforting ourselves, and alleviating the pain caused by our inability to find harmony in the environment in which we live and work. Phrases like ‘I’m spiritual’ and ‘I’m conscious’ often imply that one is more so than others, leading to a sense of difference that can hinder our attempts to understand others. The term ‘spiritual,’ in particular, has now become perilous and toxic, serving as a refuge for those who wish to shield themselves from their own egos—ironically inflating egos in the process.
Similarly, in our work environments, particularly in North America, where individualism and uniqueness are highly valued, how one could strive to be their unique best without inadvertently contributing to isolation and exclusion in the workplace?
2. I (I’m my own coach)
It was a tough question, one that I don’t possess the wisdom to answer on my own. So, I sought the insights of individuals whose wisdom I deeply admire, and I received three pieces of advice:
Respect the difference: You may find yourself very different from those around you, and that’s perfectly fine. However, the true strength lies in respecting these differences.
Ask about the difference: Assumptions tend to persist as long as they go unverified. This is where biases and stereotypes take root. If you notice a difference, embrace genuine curiosity and ask questions.
Keep inviting: It requires courage to remain curious about the differences in others and educate ourselves. The same holds true for others in relation to us. What we can do is create a safe space where others can explore our differences with curiosity. Keep extending those invitations, and don’t lose heart—keep inviting them.
The last piece of advice struck me profoundly. How often in life are we patient enough to hold the door open for others, continually inviting them in to understand our perspectives? How frequently do we persevere, rather than giving up after the first or second attempt? And among the many activists out there, how many actually invite rather than fight, prioritizing invitations over confrontation?
How often do you find yourself genuinely embracing and inviting the differences in others, rather than defaulting to judgment or avoidance, in your daily interactions and relationships?
4. D (Do)
What one small step can you take today to create a more inclusive and accepting environment for those who may be different from you?
