Listen to Your Thoughts and Your Heart
Writer Joel Barker once said, “Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world.”
I share this quote as a form of encouragement and as a reminder that we need to be intentional with our actions. It is up to us to be the change we want to see in the world, and up to every individual to figure out what they want that change to be. This mindset has allowed me to find my passion—a passion for creating a meaningful change for the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
As a diverse individual who has worked hard to earn a seat at the table, I believe it is my responsibility—and honor—to use my position to positively impact the lives of others. As an advocate, I encourage and take part in educating others. I also ask the hard questions and help make DEI part of the conversation. Additionally, I am able to exercise my passion for DEI in my professional and personal life, which allows me more opportunities to move the needle in that particular space.
I am grateful to be with Greenberg Traurig, a firm at the forefront of change in the legal profession, especially with regard to diversity. With current events bringing systemic racism and inequity to the forefront of social consciousness, our firm recognizes this shift as an opportunity to accelerate its efforts to actualize meaningful change, while providing opportunities to diverse individuals.
An individual’s passions are important to his or her authenticity, character, and motivation. That said, I challenge all of you to find your passion. Take time to listen to your thoughts and your heart. Be confident in who you are and in what you bring to the table. In turn, you will be the change you want to see and positively impact your communities, organizations, and maybe even the individuals around you.
