CLIMBING BEYOND OUR GREATEST LIMITS
Sometimes we limit ourselves more than anyone else could. Sometimes we limit ourselves more than any circumstance could. The greatest limits that we face are usually the limits we impose on ourselves.
Sometimes we think that our prior knowledge of a subject is sufficient, when in fact we have major knowledge gaps. Sometimes we think that our preconceived ideas about a particular situation are complete when we may be misjudging the matter. One of the most attractive qualities about diversity is that it trains us to eradicate these kinds of self-imposed limits.
Diversity means that we open our understanding so that we gain a greater respect and appreciation for other points of view, other perspectives, and other people’s experiences. Simultaneously, diversity does no harm to our personhood. We remain completely free to maintain our personal values, attitudes, convictions, preferences, and beliefs. Respecting another person’s diversity does not require cloning. You are completely free to be you. I am completely free to be me.
Mellody Hobson (president of Ariel Investments) spoke to these truths when she addressed the University of Southern California graduating class last May. Her words of wisdom to those graduates will enrich us too (Mark Glassman, ed., “Commencement Wisdom 2015,” Bloomberg Businessweek , 6/1/15–6/7/15, p. 25):
“ Why limit yourself to the familiar. Make an effort to step outside your circle. Do more than just accept diversity: Seek out diversity. I promise it will make you more interesting, more informed, and more understanding. ”
Some self-imposed limits are good for us such as eating, health, and personal conduct. However, some self-imposed limits only work against us. Let’s challenge ourselves to seek diversity. That helps everyone to grow.
