5 Things / Managing Yourself
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As an entrepreneur, I’m used to uncertainty – and sometimes the feeling that I’m hanging on for dear life, especially when so much is out of my control (especially anti-DEI). I’ve trained myself to look for the pivots and the opportunities. I’ve also learned to manage my mind and body because often, the only thing I can control is how I respond.
Almost everyone I know personally and professionally is struggling with feelings of uncertainty and anxiety about change for one reason or another. The upcoming election here in the U.S. adds to that. How do we manage ourselves in a moment of acute stress, especially when it’s triggered by things we can’t control at work or in the outside world?
Here are a few fast, short-term tips from my bag of tricks
Grounding. Bare feet on earth. Hug a tree. Sometimes I pull a few weeds in my garden for a couple of minutes in between meetings.
Breath. Meditation is great but for a quick fix I’ve been using the Breath feature for 3 minutes on my Apple Watch mindfulness app.
Pressure points. I pinch the skin between my thumb and index finger until I feel a release, a shift in my energy.
I’d love to hear your ideas! Please respond with your own and I may include it in a future 5 Things.
Here Are This Week’s Good Vibes:
The Avengers to be Dubbed in Lakota
Members of the Lakota Nation and Marvel Entertainment have dubbed 2012’s The Avengers in the Lakota language (now available on Disney+). This groundbreaking project, featuring the core cast, aims to revive a language that was once forced underground due to threats of punishment. The initiative, part of The Lakota Language Reclamation Project, seeks to reintroduce the language (which secretly survived) into homes. With over sixty-two Lakota-Dakota speakers involved, this project exemplifies the power of media in preserving and revitalizing indigenous languages. h/t to Karen Catlin for this story!
Ben & Jerry’s Urges Activism with “Progress Comes In Many Flavors”
Ben & Jerry's has launched its first ad campaign in years, “Progress Comes In Many Flavors,” urging consumers to become activists on various social issues, from fighting food deserts to advocating for gun reform. This campaign stands out as other brands shy away from purpose-driven marketing. Highlighting creative activism, such as building community libraries for banned books, the campaign reinforces Ben & Jerry's long-standing commitment to social justice. I hope it inspires actionable community engagement.
More ERG Leads Get Compensated
More organizations are compensating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) leads. Autodesk, which compensates ERG leaders with $10,000 annually, reports a 50% increase in ERG membership and higher employee engagement. Allstate's approach, integrating ERG leadership into daily work, results in 37% lower turnover and 25% higher promotion rates among ERG members. Micron rewards ERG leaders with stock units, and reports improved recruitment, talent acquisition, and policy influence. By recognizing and rewarding ERG leadership, these companies get all the wins: enhanced inclusion, a stronger sense of community, and better business outcomes.
Minnesota is Stepping Up Its Inclusivity Game
The Twin Cities Pride Festival offered sensory support teams and quiet zones for people with sensory sensitivities, including autism and ADHD. These initiatives, seen in other events and venues across Minnesota, provide essential support, making festivals more accessible. For example, St. Paul’s Irish Fair and Eagan events now offer sensory-friendly spaces and tools like noise-canceling earmuffs. This matters because it allows neurodiverse individuals and their families to enjoy community events together, promoting a sense of belonging and reducing social isolation. Inclusivity in public spaces truly enriches our community fabric.
Nikki Hiltz, a Trans Non-Binary Runner, Heads to Olympics
Nikki Hiltz (they/them), a transgender and nonbinary middle-distance runner, recently secured a spot in the Olympics in the 1500m race. They made the team in a personal best performance in the second fastest run by an American ever. Their visibility, especially when trans athletes are under attack, challenges societal norms and pushes for greater inclusivity in sports, proving that authenticity and excellence can coexist beautifully.
Call to Action:
Lily Zheng has released a new LinkedIn Learning course called “A Playbook to Achieve Equity Anywhere” and I learned a thing or two. Check it out!