TBN #38

Don’t Be Afraid to Apply Pressure

Happy Thursday, friend!

I Renaissance’d last night so I’m popping up in your inbox a bit later than usual. I hope you don’t mind. I have a gift for you below so keep reading.

For this month, we’ve been discussing social impact. To round out our month, I want you to consider applying pressure. What do I mean about applying pressure?

Quick story: A client (they/them) shared how their school district has been having some challenges with certain school board members’ actions and behaviors related to equity and inclusion. I asked, “how did they get elected?” While I asked the question, I already knew the answer. They said, “they had no competition during the election process.” As a result, the school district experienced some adverse outcomes as a result of the board members’ behavior. I share this story because it is a good example of a missed opportunity to make social impact. Imagine if the residents applied pressure to the school board in the election process? Or, if residents with different thoughts, ideas, and approaches initially ran for school board positions in the district.

More often than not, we can make an impact by simply stepping up and applying pressure. Pressure is not a bad thing when utilized for the common good. Pressure is when indomitable will meets persistence. You need to be persistent in your pursuit of social impact.

How you can apply some pressure:

  1. Set a clear goal for yourself: Have a clear idea of what you want to achieve can help you stay motivated and focused.

  2. Develop a plan: Break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps. This will help you track your progress and keep you motivated.

    Are you seeing the theme yet?

  3. Stay optimistic: It's important to maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with setbacks. Hope is necessary in times of despair and success.

  4. Surround yourself with supportive people: Having a network of people who believe in you can help you stay motivated and committed. Social impact is collective and collaborative.

  5. Be disciplined: Pressure requires discipline. Stick to your plan and don't let distractions get in the way.

There are many ways to take action and create impact. You could organize a protest, start a petition, write to your representatives, or volunteer for an organization that is working to address the issue. As for the school board, more families are now vocal about what they want to happen within the school district and their children’s education. Also, more residents are running for school board positions in their district. Ask yourself: how can I apply some pressure today?

Let’s get into it…


WEEKLY UPDATE

CLIFF NOTES: IN CASE YOU MISSED IT…

STUDY HALL: ATTRACTION, RETENTION, AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

A recent report from the Integrated Benefits Institute indicates that more emotional intelligence is needed in employee attraction and retention efforts. Let’s learn about why EQ is needed.

Read the report

HOMEWORK: THEY CLONED TYRONE

What I’m Listening To 🎧: Beyoncé’s Renaissance album, of course.

What I’m Watching 📺 : They Cloned Tyrone on Netflix. Sci-fi is not usually my thing but I thoroughly enjoyed the film and it’s message.

What I’m Reading This Month 📚: Nightcrawling: A novel by Leila Mottley.

DANCE BREAK: UNDER PRESSURE

There are many songs about pressure. Here’s one of my favorites. I like this one, too.

Listen to the full TBN playlist.

DOUBLE TAP: WHO I’M FOLLOWING

@blackmenaces

When I think about a group of people who are applying pressure (for social impact), Black Menaces is the first that comes to my mind. This group of young people is known for their popular social media series asking BYU students about racial history.


I’d love to hear from you!

What do you need to be better in work and in life? Send me a message or connect with me on social.

Get in touch

Amber Benton

Dr. Amber Benton (she/her/hers) is an educator, diversity/inclusion/equity (DEI) expert, and intergroup dialogue facilitator. She is an advocate for healthy workplace cultures with over a decade of professional experience. She has served as a Chief Diversity Officer for the past several years and holds master’s and doctoral degrees in education.

https://www.amberbenton.com
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TBN #39

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TBN #37