Cindy Esliger addresses differences and how differences are what make us stand out from the crowd. When we try too hard to fit in and hide our quirks and flaws, we may end up undermining ourselves. Cindy encourages everyone to embrace the difference and avoid trying too hard to contort into a box or please people at the expense of our authentic selves.

Some of the differences she notes in the workplace are the differing standards that men and women are held to. The behaviors that make men appear confident and competent, such as speaking up in meetings and acting assertively, are often held against women in the same context. Women who speak up and act assertively at work are seen as aggressive and women are afraid to embody this for fear of being disliked.

Cindy acknowledges the many inequalities at play in a workplace but stresses that office politics are vital for advancing individual goals. She refers to a Richard Petty quote that confidence is the stuff that turns thoughts into action. Confidence is important and part of our confidence stems from understanding our abilities and embracing the very fact that we are different. She encourages everyone to find their voice and not succumb to the pressures to fit in.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Guide for Embrace the Difference
• Richard Petty

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