For the Workplace
Acceptance
Seeing the differences of others as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to judge
Acceptance helps create a workplace where people feel seen, respected, and free to contribute their unique strengths.
When individuals view differences as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to judge, teams communicate more openly and collaborate with greater ease. Acceptance encourages coworkers and leaders alike to listen with curiosity, welcome diverse perspectives, and build a culture where everyone feels valued and able to do their best work.
Essay
Success Through Diversity
by Jill Tomey
In reading books and articles on business leadership and diversity, I noticed a change in more recent publications. Originally, the value of diversity was limited to globalized, multicultural organizations but as my reading became more current, I saw that local businesses also need to embrace diversity. According to projections by the US Census Bureau, by 2044, more than half of all Americans are projected to belong to a minority group (any group other than non-Hispanic White alone). This will affect all businesses, not just those with global customers. To take it to a personal level: No matter what your goal is, personal or professional, you will benefit from interacting with people who act and think differently than you do.
Differences can be energizing and boost innovation and creativity in corporate spaces and well as personal spaces. Those companies and individuals that see diversity as a social justice obligation will miss an opportunity to improve, grow and increase their cultural competence. As our nation diversifies, embracing diversity and inclusion becomes a competitive advantage and at some point, a necessity.
Carol Fulp, author of Success through Diversity, writes about a study by the management consulting firm, McKinsey & Co., that found companies with the most diverse boards averaged returns on equity more than 50 percent higher than those with the least diverse boards. That definitely puts diversity on the must-have list rather than the nice-to-have list. The case studies in her book back up this claim and present best practices to make inclusion and tolerance a core part of a company’s mission and operations.
This month, use your Acceptance to build diversity in your world.
Affirmations for the Workplace
I build strong working relationships by seeking common ground with colleagues.
I welcome new ideas and viewpoints with curiosity and openness.
I value differences because they help us solve problems more creatively.
I respect the beliefs and perspectives of others and look for the good in every person I work with.
I assume that others are doing their best with the responsibilities and challenges they carry.
Acceptance Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources you can use in the workplace to encourage the Character Quality of Acceptance.
Acceptance Quotes
Looking for reminders that Acceptance makes a difference? Explore the full collection of Acceptance Quotes and find the perfect line to share, post, or spark a conversation.
