Many leaders who lack self-awareness stare blankly at me when I mention diversity, to the point where I wonder whether they even realize that diversity is all around them. Think of your regular workplace. Are there two people who think exactly alike? Do any two people look exactly the same? Does everyone have the same leadership style? Does everyone have exactly the same knowledge? Did everyone grow up exactly the same way?
Every workplace is made up of people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This isn’t due to some cosmic plan, it’s just that no two people are alike. So why is it that people get all bent out of shape about diversity?
Perhaps it’s just that we don’t like to think about new and different things. Humans, especially those that lack self-awareness, are generally resistant to change but are amazingly capable of assimilating it over time. Why should you care about diversity? It really comes down to getting stuff done. Imagine if everyone on your team felt included. Think about what would happen if you could get rid of much of the problems related to people not getting along at work. What would your business look like if people trusted each other and worked as a team?
Diversity can be a powerful tool for businesses and individuals to succeed. It allows you to harness and use the wide range of talents and experience of your workforce. Best of all it makes sure that everyone is part of a thriving team rather than the alternative.
What will you do to develop self-awareness and care about diversity?
Cheers,
Guy