- Body One Fitness
Stop and Look Both Ways
There comes a time in your life when you encounter individuals whose opinions differ from your own. This does not discount the fact that there is an opportunity to have dialogue regarding what might be a divisive topic. Just because of that fact doesn’t mean you should shy away from having discourse, embrace the uncomfortable. There are many sensitive subjects circulating the media currently and not all might feel they have the space to converse and express their opinions.
According to Reid in “Why Diversity without Inclusion Is Tokenism”, “What steps have you taken to be actively and intentionally inclusive in your social space?….It takes courage, honesty and consistency. It takes a little vulnerability too. Dropping the ego and perfectionism and being open and able to receive feedback, evaluate, adapt and take action. Constantly.”
But where do we start?
There are a few simple strategies to become more aware of inclusivity and giving those around you the space to speak:
- Listen more and talk carefully
Don’t dismiss others contributions
Address the person you’re speaking with accurately
Try not to react but actively listen and respond when it's your time
- Challenge stereotypes
Recognize unconscious bias
What is the goal of the conversation?
What is our common interest?
Where are your insecurities coming from?
- Acknowledge your privilege
“Privileges generally are not created at a personal level. Rather they are the products of the artificial divisions that are perpetuated by the structures, systems, and institutions that exist in our world” (FairForce Co., 2019).
- Stay open and curious. Don’t fear mistakes
The age-old saying that “you learn from your mistakes” is inherently true
There’s no linear path to understanding everything in this ever growing and ever changing world, just do your best. It's a process, a reflection.
Happy conversing!
References
FairForce Co. “7 Ways to Be More Inclusive in Your Everyday Life.” Medium, Medium, 25 July 2019, medium.com/@fairforceberlin/7-ways-to-be-more-inclusive-in-your-everyday-life-9af5ee018372.
Reid, Nova. “Why Diversity without Inclusion Is Tokenism.” LinkedIn, Nova Reid, 10 July 2019, www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-diversity-without-inclusion-tokenism-nova-reid/.