Just as many of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) federal, state, local, and private programs throughout the United States and elsewhere have been dismantled, I decided this is the perfect time to engage this topic with greater rigor and commitment.
This led me to a year-long course of study in which I have been challenged to develop deeper self-awareness of my own bias patterns and to grow in psychological literacy of my common emotional patterns. These patterns include greater empathic response for people who I identify with and to see as a threat response people I don’t. My time of studying and learning has led me to again understand that emotions spread like an out-of-control wildfire, shaping team dynamics.
To lead others is to first be a steward of my own emotions and to take responsibility for the impact of my mood, words, and behavior on myself and others. Effective leaders display temperament and behaviors that match the situation, and with optimism. They are honest and boundaried yet offer stability in turbulent times.
In the face of unpredictable change and runaway anxiety, confusion, and fear across workplaces and in communities, eroding trust and goodwill, leaders are asked to hold even greater complexity without rushing into binary thinking (right/wrong, good/bad). We are instead asked to engage with renewed vigor, self-stewardship, and creativity to meet the moment.
How will you meet the moment?
Join me Spring 2026, for Pendle Hill’s Spring Term, March 1-May 4, 2026. Learn more: https://pendlehill.org/calendar/the-spring-term-resident-student-program/
Read my latest article, entitled ‘No Birth, No Death’ published by Lion’s Roar:
https://www.lionsroar.com/no-birth-no-death
