I’m currently reviewing a new book from Todd Kashdan -The Art of Insubordination. Full review coming soon but in short it’s a must-read for anyone who wants to make a positive difference; at work, outside of work, in life, anywhere!
What I love about the book is the way Todd shares practical advice to help you become a ‘principled rebel’. So many of us want to shake things up in the name of positive progress but don’t know where to start. That’s why I loved this recent post Todd shared with his subscribers, giving some practical ways to avoid politics getting in the way of social progress. In his newsletter Todd asks to share it with anyone interested in living with more courage, and helping people to reach their human potential, so I thought I would pass it on to you – thanks Todd!!
Post From Todd:
Scientists have shown how teaching about the history of slavery and the Holocaust matter. Why? Because these teachings increase warmth and empathy not just toward those harmed in the past but their descendants in the present.
If you want a world with more compassion, perspective taking, and intellectual humility, you don’t ban education. History offers the vantage point of learning what worked, what failed, and why. Learning from the failings of the past is the most efficient way to do better now and in the future. But we must be honest – there are exceptional, good, bad, and horrid ways to talk about race.
A few ingredients that are part of the most effective educational approaches on race and diversity:
1. Allow curious questions.
2. Roll with resistance.
3. Reduce self-silencing.
4. Assume benevolent intent.
5. Offer charity.
6. Extract the minority perspectives in the room.
7. Minimize public shaming.
8. Prevent group splintering
9. Clarify the end game. What outcomes will show it worked? And once it works, what’s the next plan? At what point do we start to titrate?
For details on the science and practical strategies, pre-order The Art of Insubordination. Do it for the knowledge. Or, do it for me. I want to get this into the hands of educators, organizations, and policy makers and start having difficult conversations about taboo topics. For the sake of productive conflict. For the purpose of moving society closer to utopian ideals.
Finally, if you pre-order the book, don’t forget to collect your free limited edition gifts! Scroll to the bottom of this website and fill out the form: https://toddkashdan.com/the-art-of-insubordination/. A free workbook with extra strategies. Free videos. And more. No catches. Do it! It’s how I express my gratitude.
