Do You Have the Courage to Face Your Blind Spots?
As leaders, we are often tasked with making decisions that impact not only the business but also the people who work with and for us. However, one of the most significant challenges we face is recognizing our own blind spots—those biases and assumptions that influence our thinking without us even realizing it. These blind spots can lead to unconscious exclusion, limiting the potential of our teams and the diversity of thought they bring.
This is where courageous inclusion becomes essential.
What is Courageous Inclusion?
Blanchard's Courageous Inclusion course addresses this challenge directly. It equips leaders to recognize their biases and embrace a more inclusive mindset. Inclusion is not just about diversity in numbers but about creating an environment where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.
Practicing courageous inclusion means stepping outside of our comfort zones and taking a hard look at our everyday decisions. Are we genuinely listening to others? Do we invite viewpoints different from our own? Are we actively fostering a space where people of all backgrounds and experiences can thrive?
I offer this transformative Blanchard course "Courageous Inclusion" both virtually in a 3-hour format or as a 1-day, face-to-face training session. Whether you're looking for a concise, impactful virtual session or a deeper dive with in-person engagement, the course is tailored to fit your organization's needs.
Understanding Jennifer Brown's Inclusive Leadership Model
Jennifer Brown, a leading voice on inclusive leadership, offers a practical framework in her book How to Be an Inclusive Leader. Brown's model emphasizes a four-stage journey for leaders as they develop their inclusion muscles:
- Unaware – At this stage, leaders are often unaware of the biases and structural inequalities in their environment.
- Aware – Leaders begin to understand the importance of inclusion and diversity, recognizing their own blind spots and the need for change.
- Active – Here, leaders take intentional steps to promote inclusivity, creating tangible changes in how they lead and build their teams.
- Advocate – In this final stage, leaders become champions of diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively using their influence to drive systemic change within their organizations.
Incorporating this model with Blanchard's Courageous Inclusion course allows leaders to deeply reflect on where they are in their own journey and how they can push forward into the next stages.
The Power of Self-Awareness and Vulnerability
Often, we unknowingly operate within blind spots that create barriers to inclusivity. These blind spots are shaped by our backgrounds, experiences, and societal conditioning. However, the good news is that self-awareness and vulnerability are powerful antidotes to these challenges. When leaders are willing to reflect on their biases, they open the door to growth—not only for themselves but for their teams as well.
Courageous Inclusion challenges leaders to develop that greater self-awareness, using tools and frameworks to help recognize unconscious biases and implement strategies to mitigate them. It also encourages vulnerability, a critical component of Jennifer Brown's model. Vulnerable leaders are more likely to admit when they don't have all the answers and are willing to engage in difficult conversations about inclusion.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
At the heart of both Blanchard's Courageous Inclusion and Jennifer Brown's model is the concept of belonging. A truly inclusive leader doesn't just aim for diversity but strives to create a culture where every individual feels valued and has a voice. True belonging goes beyond having a seat at the table—it's about ensuring everyone's contributions are heard and appreciated.
When leaders foster this sense of belonging, the ripple effects are transformative. Diverse perspectives fuel creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Organizations that embrace inclusive leadership see not only higher employee engagement but also better business outcomes.
Facing the Challenge Head-On
Being a courageous leader means having the humility to recognize that you have blind spots—and the bravery to confront them. It involves ongoing learning, self-reflection, and a deep commitment to cultivating inclusive practices within your organization. As Jennifer Brown outlines, this is not a destination but a continuous journey.
Blanchard's Courageous Inclusion course is designed to support leaders on this journey, providing practical tools and frameworks to recognize biases and foster inclusion at every level. When combined with the insights from Jennifer Brown's inclusive leadership model, this approach becomes a powerful strategy for building teams where everyone can thrive.
Are you ready to lead with courage and inclusion?