Earlier this week, I posted a link to a video that demonstrated that we, the people of this world, are not as far apart as some might think. (Click here to see post). I suppose it is due to the fact that America has been in existence for a few hundred years now that some people forget that we are ALL immigrants into this country when you look deep enough into your family history. Simply put, it means we all have a diverse background if you dig back far enough.
Diversity is such a positive element in our lives. I also believe that it is a critical element in leading a life of being Up or Getting Up (But Never Down.) Diversity, particularly in regards to our friendships, brings enormous value to our life. Having a diverse group of friends or a diverse team at work means that they provide a different viewpoint on a variety of issues. They expand your comfort zone around topics in which you are not as educated or knowledgeable. They bring an element of experience into your life that you don’t have. They educate on issues that may not be affecting you directly, but they do so in a way that makes you want to seek change instead of defend the status quo. They make you a better person. One of the greatest values they offer is that they enable you to positively impact the world. If you simply surround yourself with people who are just like you, or people who always agree with you, then how do you make a difference in the world? If you have ever spent much time around me in a working environment, then you have heard me say these words: “If two people always agree, then one of you is not necessary.” People who are different from you are necessary in your life. Appreciate the differences, whether those differences are in your race, the native language that you speak, your gender, your religion (or lack thereof), your upbringing, your sexual orientation, your political beliefs and affiliations, or any other element that makes them different from you.
Having a diverse group of friends (or a diverse work group), does bring on a certain level of challenges. By definition, there will be differences of opinion and disagreements on the approach to a solution. Our ability to positively impact the world depends on how we manage ourselves to those differences. The solution, however, is deceptively simple: Respect. Respect for others viewpoints, opinions, and beliefs. Respect in the way we treat each other, especially in moments of disagreement. Respect for one another.
Wrapping it all UP
Living a life of being Up or Getting Up is not always easy. We are going to run in to challenges. Issues are going to arise that causes friends and teammates to disagree. Instead of losing a friend or a team member because of the difference, respect the fact that they have a different viewpoint and opinion and grow from the experience. We don’t always have to agree, but we do always have to respect each other.
If you would like to see the video mentioned at the beginning of this article, click here.
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