2021 Word of the Year- ACT
Act on 2021 is a series published each month. In these articles I’ll focus on a variation of the word “act”, and all the ways we can take inspiration from it.
This week I’m thinking about the derivative “action”, as in taking action, do something, move forward. If there was anything we learned in 2020, it was to take action. For me, that’s along the lines of kindness. To take action. Kind thoughtful action.
Hate and racism stem from unkind thoughts and actions. Honestly, I struggled, questioning how could I act on 2021 with all that was going on.
“Who am I to discuss anything about racism, diversity, inclusivity?”
“How do I fit into this conversation?”
“What can I possibly do?”
Action
I had enlightening conversations with colleagues Lou Ragja and Nina Byrd who both reminded me that silence is a form of acceptance. Doing nothing is not acceptable. Even baby steps, acknowledging and addressing racism, unconscious bias, microaggressions, and joining in as an ally are all important ways to take action.
It felt like addressing the intersectionality of inclusivity and exclusivity in my work as it related to kindness in the workplace was the right place to start.
I hope baby steps will turn into bigger steps, as I learn more.
What about you? How have your actions been informed by the events of 2020? How has the peeling back of the facade that POC and white people are treated the same in America impacted you? Join the conversation with us on LinkedIn.
Below, you’ll find my 10 Ways to Cultivate Kindness with Action and Accountability.