ROCK thru invisible disability at work
Part 3: Empower the brave
by Lee Havenga | February 2, 2023
When someone is brave enough to share their illness with you, it likely comes after a risk/benefit calculation based on your behaviors. No one wants to suffer in silence, but they will to protect themselves and their livelihood. You have been given a precious gift, someone’s trust. Now, you must protect it.
RESPECT
The beauty of a whole diamond emerges from its many facets.
Apply it
Like a gemstone with different sides, we, too, are complex beings with many unique aspects that make up our whole being. A person’s illness is just one small part of who they are. It takes a conscious effort to see and uphold people’s unique value in a new way. Of course, this doesn’t excuse poor performance or attitude at work. It just means that when given the opportunity, most workers welcome the opportunity to contribute through the adversity of a disability.
What creative solutions will you come up with or support for a co-worker with an illness to feel unconditional value?
How will you guide others to see the same unconditional value you see?
OWNERSHIP
Always look beyond what you can see.
~ Mark A. Cooper, Author
Apply it
It’s our human survival nature to make quick decisions with limited information. It’s what kept our species alive when they assumed the rustling noise behind them was a saber tooth tiger and ran. In modern situations that aren’t life-threatening, we have the luxury and responsibility to control our immediate reactions. If a colleague with an illness makes a mistake or has a performance blip, first, resist judging altogether. We all make mistakes for all kinds of reasons. If the situation warrants that you understand an underlying cause, don’t assume their illness is the root. Be intentional to ensure your perspective of all people goes beyond what you think you know. Be diligent and go beyond assumptions.
CONNECTION
When people have a disability, they want to be considered, not called out.
Apply it
If you earn a person’s trust, it’s an honor for someone to let you into the most tender parts of themselves. But don’t make a big deal out of it. If a person has a disability, they don’t want to be defined by it. They didn’t ask for or want their illness and would get rid of it if they could. Listen intently, express empathy for their situation, and then ask what they need. If they say they don’t know what they need, ask them to think about it and set a date to follow up. Then, make an action plan together.
KINDNESS
Make self-care the norm, not the exception.
Apply it
We live in a competitive world where sacrifice equals success. Model a healthier, more sustainable approach, seeking opportunities to express how all our bodies are susceptible. Show how slowing down to care for ourselves is an intelligent approach with personal and business rewards.
Leader: I’ve seen how you’ve handled difficult situations with colleagues lately. You have what it takes to be a leader.
Colleague: Thanks! Those situations are challenging, but since I began meditating each morning, I’ve noticed that I’m calmer, even during stressful times.
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