Nature’s 4 Tips for Getting Diversity and Inclusion Right
I’ve been writing recently about biomimetic perspectives on diversity, how nature and successful businesses are in tandem in terms of social networks, and the research behind diversity and inclusion. Also, I’ve been pondering what wildflowers can teach us about being our unique selves. It’s part of my musings on how so much of what I do is about making connections between trauma, life, work, happiness, leadership, and love.
I think it’s worth taking a deeper look at what nature can teach us about getting diversity and inclusion right. At its core, it’s about allowing each person to be their true self, feel that they belong to the organization, and it’s about cooperating and communicating. Let’s look at some specifics:
- A strong network of relationships – this is how nature and businesses work, with high levels of transparency, integrity, and constant communication. Nature does this with tight feedback loops.
- Justice and equity – in the rest of nature, besides us pesky humans, there is no racism or sexism. In fact, there is no scientific basis for racism.
- Information sharing and collaborative decision-making – this is exemplified in nature through superorganisms – such as ants and bees – which are always sharing information through simple rules and feedback loops, which make is easier to execute fast and decentralized decisions.
- Championing diversity – nature favors genetic diversity and uses it to foster resilience against change and disturbance, and, importantly, nature doesn’t suppress anyone from contributing. All perspectives are welcome, useful, and contribute to resilience.
Nature is by definition cooperative, communicative, and equitable when we glean lessons that are applicable under ethical constraints. These lessons show us how to foster resilient organizations that honor and leverage the unique talents of every single team member. Let me know how your organization does this!
Also, it’s only two days till we start posting videos as part of our Rising Above campaign. It’s not too late to submit yours! Ask me how.
Nature shows us how to get diversity and inclusion right. Photo by Providence Doucet on Unsplash.