AOK Today #34 - You Belong!

AOK Today: Make an effort to make those around you feel like they belong

“I see you. I care. You have a voice here. We share a future." - Daniel Coyle

How It Works: Bring to mind a time when you were able to be yourself; your complete, authentic, self. Think of how it felt to be who you truly are, and compare this to how you felt during times when you tried to be who someone else wanted you to be, and/or when you’ve tried to ‘fit in.’ Feeling safe and free enough to be ourselves is such a gift and privilege. Making others feel safe and free to be their authentic selves is powerful and important. This is especially true for people who have traditionally been excluded and/or discriminated against. Ruchika Tulshyan speaks of the acute pain representatives of marginalised groups can feel, of “being invisible and hyper-visible at the same time” - being seen for their 'group identity,' and not being seen for their-self. Inclusion takes intention and practice because we are hardwired to be drawn to people who are 'like us.' Here are two powerful ways to help others feel safe to be their authentic self around you.

• Prioritise the correct pronunciation of someone’s name…all names are meaningful to their owner.

• Use affirming visual images

• Focus on culture add, not culture fit in your group/workplace...be intentional and honest about the perspectives and backgrounds that are missing. Name them, Spell it out. Seek them.

Cost: Free!

Why I love it: In a recent group activity I attended, the facilitator ran an exercise where each participant was invited to share the story of their full name. It was supposed to be a grounding exercise/ice breaker, but it took me on such an emotional, powerful journey of curiosity, vulnerability, and empathy. There is so much in a name. There is so much in honouring others for who they are are learning from them.

Happy Giving |XOX|