Working Towards a More Just and Equitable World
When I began Forward Movement Consulting almost five years ago, I embarked upon a mission to align my work with my values, and to have that work match my capacity as a working mother. I consider it a privilege to have made and continue to make that choice to constantly seek (and sometimes find) the right balance for what I need in each season of my life. I have always felt compelled and purposed in doing my part in creating a just and more equitable world. I am so grateful to my family, my clients, and my networks that all truly enable, support, and call on me to continue doing my part no matter what.
This year has proven to be a rollercoaster – lots of ups and downs and somehow more difficult to remain balanced and grounded. I birthed my third living child a year ago, I have been experiencing a global health pandemic at home with my partner and three kids under the age of five, and I’ve mourned the lack of human contact (hugging my friends, shaking people’s hands). The emotional and gut-wrenching pain that comes every time I witness the continual murder of black and brown bodies, followed by the grief and anger that erupts where no one is fully held accountable. There have been times were my hope was only a flicker as opposed to a burning flame. And, of course, trying to do my part in one of the most historic elections in U.S. history. This last year has forced me to surrender to the chaos and the confusion, accepting it for what it is while grappling with some of the most basic values that sustain us and drive us to work for a better future.
Amidst it all, the work, connections, and relationships I have been able to build through FMC continue to offer a place of fulfillment, joy, and peace. I have realized that doing good work is great; but how I do the work matters just as much. A few things I have managed to do that make this time bearable and somewhat productive are:
- I have been intentional about making connections with friends, colleagues, and family;
- I am seeking to work collaboratively on as many projects as possible because I thrive in community with others and much of my work is enhanced when I have a thought partners; and
- I am seeking professional networks that provide space for me to be a student and learner and not just the teacher and expert.
- As you continue to face this season of transformation, how are you finding ways to take care of yourself as you do your part?
- How do you decide where and when you can do your part in achieving a just and more equitable world?