What does curiosity look like inside a healthcare system?
In Episode 29 of the Curiosity at Work podcast, Curiosity in Healthcare IT with Bradd Busick, Dr. Julie Pham sits down with Bradd, Senior Vice President and CIO at MultiCare Health, to explore how curiosity shapes healthcare IT, patient care, and leadership during uncertainty.
From navigating COVID-19 to accelerating telehealth adoption, Bradd shares how technology is not just a support function — it’s part of the care team.
They discuss:
• Why psychological safety is essential for reporting failures • How a questioning mindset improves patient outcomes • The evolving role of the CIO in healthcare • Why investing in IT directly impacts care delivery
One of our favorite lines from the episode: “IT is part of the care team.”
Curiosity isn’t abstract. It changes how we lead, how we respond to uncertainty, and how we care for others.
We curated this list 2026 Women Authored Leadership Book List to promote women authored leadership books. This list is meant to be a resource, not an official endorsement and the books listed are in alphabetical order. Check out our other leadership book lists by authors who identify as LGBTQIA+, AANHPI, Native American, Black, and Hispanic/ Latino/ Latinx. View all of our leadership book lists here.
#KeepGoing: From 15-Year-Old Mom to Successful CEO & Entrepreneur – Mari Tautimes
#NotYourPrincess: Voices of Native American Women – Lisa Charleyboy & Mary Beth Leatherdale (eds)
[Un]framing the “Bad Woman” – Alicia Gaspar de Alba
10 New Rules for Women at Work – Deb Liu
101 Reasons to Get Out of Bed – Natasha Milne
12 Tools for Managing a Selfish Leader – Josefine Campbell
3HAG Way – Shannon Byrne Susko
50 Billion Dollar Boss – Kathey Porter
7 Deadly Sins of Women in Leadership – Kate Coleman
7 Forms of Respect – Julie Pham, PhD
A Body, Undone: Living On After Great Pain – Christina Crosby
A CEO for All Seasons – Carolyn Dewar
A Different Kind of Power: A Memoir – Jacinda Ardern
A Face for Picasso – Ariel Henley
A Good Cry, What we Learn from Tears and Laughter – Nikki Giovanni
A House of My Own: Stories From My Life – Sandra Cisneros
A Mind Spread Out on the Ground – Alicia Elliott
A Mythic Life: Learning to live our greater story – Jean Houston
A Passion for the Possible – Jean Houston
A Room of One’s Own – Virginia Woolf
A Writer’s Diary – Virginia Woolf
Abandon Me: Memoirs – Melissa Febos
Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader – Hermina Ibarra
Acting Up: Winning in Business and in Life – Janice Bryant Howroyd
After the Idea – Julia Austin
After the Rain – Alexandra Elle
Against White Feminism – Rafia Zakaria
Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism – Bell Hooks
All About Love – Bell Hooks
All In: An Autobiography – Billie Jean King
All It Takes Is a Goal – Jon Acuff
All That She Carried – Tiya Miles
All the Leader You Can Be – Suzanne Bates
Ally Leadership – Stephanie Chung
Almost a Woman – Esmeralda Santiago
America for Americans – Erika Lee
American Indian Stories – Zitkala-Sa
An Indian Among Los Indígenas – Ursula Pike
An Overachiever’s Guide to Breaking the Rules – Heather Whelpley
An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness – Kay Redfield Jamison
Anchored, Aligned, Accountable – Aiko Bethea
And A Voice to Sing With: A Memoir – Joan Baez
And Now We Are Going to Have a Party – Nicola Griffith
Annapurna: A woman’s place – Arlene Blum
AOC: The Fearless Rise and Powerful Resonance of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortes – Lynda Lopez
Apocalyptic Best Practices – Elisebeth VanderWeil
Are You Mad at Me? – Meg Josephson
As Long As Grass Grows – Dina Gilio-Whitaker
As We Have Always Done – Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
Ask For It – Linda Babcock & Sara Laschever
ASL Saved My Life…Until it didn’t – Jenni Kleinman Berebitsky
Atlas of the Heart – Brene Brown
Audition – Katie Kitamura
Authenticity, Identity, and Being Yourself at Work – Susan David
#28 Curiosity in Community Action with Janice Deguchi
#28 Curiosity in Community Action with Janice Deguchi
In episode #28 of Curiosity at Work podcast: “Curiosity in Community Action with Janice Deguchi,” Dr. Julie Pham interviews Deguchi, executive director of Neighborhood House, a community action organization. They discuss the importance of curiosity in the social service sector, the structure and services of Neighborhood House, and the challenges of practicing curiosity as a leader.
Furthermore, Janice shares insights on the diverse workforce at Neighborhood House, the significance of culturally responsive behavioral health care, and the need for continuous learning in leadership roles.
Key takeaways include:
Curiosity is essential in the social service sector.
Community Action organizations are rooted in the civil rights movement.
Neighborhood House serves a diverse population from birth to end of life.
A significant portion of the workforce is involved in direct services.
Diversity in the workforce enhances community engagement.
Culturally responsive behavioral health care is crucial for immigrant communities.
Practicing curiosity can be challenging for leaders with busy schedules.
Slowing down can lead to better decision-making and understanding.
Peer support and thought partnership are vital for effective leadership.
Continuous learning through podcasts and peer interactions fuels curiosity.
We created this list to promote Black authored leadership books. This list is meant to be a resource, not an official endorsement and the books listed are in alphabetical order. Check out our other leadership book lists by authors who identify as LGBTQIA+, AANHPI, Native American, Women, and Hispanic/ Latino/ Latinx. View all of our leadership book lists here.
12 Notes: On Life and Creativity – Quincy Jones
50 Billion Dollar Boss: African American Women Sharing Stories of Success in Entrepreneurship and Leadership – Kathey Porter
9 Laws of Success: Attracting the Life, Love, Health & Success You Want! – Stormy Wellington
A Conscious Leadership Collective Volume I: Leading From Within: Ceasing and Desisting the Internal BS – Chantée L. Christian (editor)
A Good Cry, What we Learn from Tears and Laughter – Nikki Giovanni
A Lucky Man – Jamel Brinkley
A Promised Land – Barack Obama
A Seat at the C-Suite Table: Insights from the leadership Journeys of African American Executives – Chuck Wallington, PhD
A Way Out of No Way: A Memoir of Truth, Transformation, and the New American Story – Raphael Warnock
Acting Up: Winning in Business and in Life Using Down-Home Wisdom – Janice Bryant Howroyd
After the Rain: Gentle Reminders for Healing, Courage, and Self-Love – Alexandra Elle
Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism – Bell Hooks
Air Traffic: A Memoir of Ambition and Manhood in America – Gregory Pardlo
All About Love – Bell Hooks
All That She Carried – Tiya Miles
Allow Me to Retort: A Black Guy’s Guide to the Constitution – Elie Mystal
American Imam: From Pop Stardom to Prison Abolition – Taymullah Abdur-Rahman
Anchored, Aligned, Accountable: A Framework for Transcending Bullsh*t and Transforming Our Lives and Work – Aiko Bethea
And Then We Rise: A Guide to Loving and Taking Care of Self – Common
Authentic: The Myth of Bringing Your Full Self to Work – Jodi-Ann Burey
Bad Feminist – Roxane Gay
Balancing Work and Life: The Nia Guide for Black Women – Sheryl Huggins & Cheryl Mayberry McKissack
Bamboozled: How God Tricked Me into the Life of My Dreams – Yvonne Orji
Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo” – Zora Neale Hurston
Be a Revolution: How Everyday People Are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World – Ijeoma Oluo
Beating the Odds: Eddie Brown’s Investing and Life Strategies – Eddie Brown
Becoming – Michelle Obama
Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Bee Fearless: Dream Like a Kid – Mikaila Ulmer
Believe Bigger: Discover the Path to Your Life Purpose – Marshawn Evans Daniels
Between the World and Me – Ta-Nehisi Coates
Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do – Jennifer Eberhardt
Black AF History: The Un-whitewashed Story of America – Michael Harriot
Black and White: The Way I See It – Richard Williams
Black Business Secrets: 500 Tips, Strategies, and Resources for the African American Entrepreneur – Dante Lee
Black Earth Wisdom: Soulful Conversations with Black Environmentalists – Leah Penniman
Black Entrepreneur Survival Guide: The Complete Guide to Becoming a Successful African American Entrepreneur – Dunneille D. Anderson
Black Faces in White Places: 10 Game-Changing Strategies to Achieve Success and Find Greatness – Randal Pinkett & Jeffrey Robinson
Black Fatigue: How Racism Erodes the Mind, Body, and Spirit – Mary-Frances Winters
Black Fortunes: The Story of the First Six African Americans Who Escaped Slavery and Became Millionaires – Shomari Wills
Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider – Stacy Spikes
Black Futures – Kimberly Drew & Jenna Wortham
Black Girls Rock!: Owning Our Magic, Rocking Our Truth – Beverly Bond
Black Power Inc.: The New Voices of Success – Cora Daniels
Black Titan: A.G. Gaston and the Making of a Black American Millionaire – Carol Jenkins & Elizabeth Gardner Hines
Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District – Hannibal B. Johnson
Black Women Taught Us: An Intimate History of Black Feminism – Jenn M. Jackson, PhD
Black, White, and The Grey – Mashama Bailey & John O. Morisano
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking – Malcolm Gladwell
Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood – Trevor Noah
Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman’s Playbook for Love and Success – Charreah Jackson
Bridges to Heal US: Stories and Strategies for Racial Healing – Erin Jones
Building Atlanta: How I Broke Through Segregation to Launch a Business Empire – Herman J. Russell
Burn the Blueprint: Reject the Lies, Embrace the In-Between, and Begin Again – Carlos Whittaker
Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You’d Rather Cancel – Loretta Ross
CEO of My Soul: The Self-Love Journey of a Small Business Owner – Nic Cober Esquire
Chasing Youth Culture and Getting it Right: How Your Business Can Profit by Tapping Today’s Most Powerful Trendsetters and Tastemakers – Tina Wells
Climb: Taking Every Step with Conviction, Courage, and Calculated Risk to Achieve a Thriving Career and a Successful Life – Michelle Gadsden-Williams & Carolyn M. Brown
Colorization: One Hundred Years of Black Films in A White World – Wil Haygood
Constructing a Nervous System – Margo Jefferson
Conversations in Black: On Power, Politics, and Leadership – Ed Gordon
Crazy as Hell: The Best Little Guide to Black History – Hoke S. Glover & V. Efua Prince
David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants – Malcolm Gladwell
Death of Innocence – Christopher Benson & Mamie Till-Mobley
Decoded – Jay-Z
DEI-ing: A Guide to Navigating the Gotdamn Mess They’ve Made of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Dr. Cheryl Ingram
Display of Power – Daymond John
Double Down: Bet on Yourself and Succeed on Your Own Terms – Antionette M. Clarke & Tricia Clarke-Stone
Driven by Intention: Own Your Purpose, Gain Power, and Pursue Your Passion as a Woman at Work – Michelle Gadsden-Williams
Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less – Tiffany Dufu
Eartha & Kitt: A Daughter’s Love Story in Black and White – Kitt Shapiro
Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower – Brittney Cooper
Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds – adrienne maree brown
Everybody’s Got Something – Robin Roberts & Veronica Chambers
Everyday Millionaires: How Ordinary People Built Extraordinary Wealth – And How You Can Too – Chris Hogan
Expect to Win: Proven Strategies for Success From a Wall Street Vet – Carla A. Harris
Feeding the Soul – Tabitha Brown
Finding Me: A Memoir – Viola Davis
Finding My Voice: My Journey to the West Wing and the Path Forward – Valerie Jarrett
Fire Shut Up in My Bones – Charles Blow
First Things First: Hip-Hop Ladies Who Changed the Game – Nadirah Simmons
From the Hood to the Holler: A Story of Separate Worlds, Shared Dreams, and the Fight for America’s Future – Charles Booker
FutureProofed: How to Navigate Disruptive Change, Find Calm in Chaos, and Succeed in Work & Life – Natalia Peart
Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole – Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche
Get the F Out Your Own Way: A Guide to Letting Go of the Sh*t that’s Holding You Back* – MJ Harris
Get Up And Get On It: A Black Entrepreneur’s Lessons on Creating Legacy and Wealth – Dana Frank
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic – Sonja Thomas & Lilly Workneh
Gracism: The Art of Inclusion – Dr. David A. Anderson
Green Power: The Successful Way of A.G. Gaston – A.G. Gaston
Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law – Haben Girma
Heavy: An American Memoir – Kiese Laymon
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race – Margot Lee Shetterly
Hood Feminist: Notes from the Women that a Movement Forgot – Mikki Kendall
How Boards Work and How They Can Work Better in a Chaotic World – Dambisa Moyo
How to Be an Antiracist – Ibram X. Kendi
How to Get Stupid White Men Out of Office: The Anti-Politics, Un-Boring Guide to Power – adrienne maree brown (eds)
How to Live Free in a Dangerous World: A Decolonial Memoir – Shayla Lawson
How to Succeed in Business Without Being White: Straight Talk on Making It in America – Earl G. Graves
How We Show Up: Reclaiming Family, Friendship, and Community – Mia Birdsong
Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body – Roxane Gay
I Did a New Thing: 30 Days to Living Free – Tabitha Brown
I Saw Death Coming: A History of Terror and Survival in the War Against Reconstruction – Kidada E. Williams
Ida B. Wells Marches for the Vote – Dinah Johnson
Illogical: Saying Yes to a Life Without Limits – Emmanuel Acho
I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manual – Luvvie Ajayi
I’m Not Yelling – Elizabeth Leiba
I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness – Austin Channing Brown
I’m That Girl – Jordan Chiles
Impolite Conversations: On Race, Politics, Sex, Money, and Religion – Cora Daniels & John L. Jackson Jr.
In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens: Womanist Prose – Alice Walker
Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl – Harriet Jacobs
Inside Out: The Equity Leader’s Guide to Undoing Institutional Racism – Caprice D. Hollins
Invisible Man, Got the Whole World Watching: A Young Black Man’s Education Book – Mychal Denzel Smith
It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership – Colin Powell
It’s About Damn Time – Arlan Hamilton
It’s About Time: The Art of Choosing the Meaningful Over the Urgent – Valorie Burton
Just As I Am – Cicely Tyson
Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption – Bryan Stevenson
Know What Makes Them Tick: How to Successfully Negotiate Almost Any Situation – Shonda Rhimes
Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change – Stacey Abrams
Leadership Unlocked: Harness the Power of Your Ambition – Jesse Rhodes
Leslie F*cking Jones: A Memoir – Leslie Jones
Let Love Rule – Lenny Kravitz
Life Coaching for Successful Women: Powerful Questions, Practical Answers – Valorie Burton
Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina – Misty Copeland
Little Black Book: A Toolkit for Working Women – Otegha Uwagba
Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America – James Forman, Jr.
Love and Rage – Lama Rod Owens
Love Leadership: The New Way to Lead in a Fear Based World – John Hope Bryant
Lovely One: A Memoir – Ketanji Brown Jackson
Lovesong: Becoming a Jew – Julius Lester
Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum – Antonia Hylton
Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative – Keke Palmer
Meaty: Essays – Samantha Irby
Men We Reaped – Jesmyn Ward
Mental Detox: The Power and Guidance to Implement Peace, Joy, Balance, and Financial Abundance in Your Life – Cheyenne Bryant
Miles: The Autobiography – Miles Davis
Miss Jessie’s: Creating a Successful Business From Scratch — Naturally – Miko Branch
Mom & Me & Mom – Maya Angelou
More Myself: A Journey – Alicia Keys
More than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are (No Matter What They Say) – Elaine Welteroth
More Than Pretty: Doing the Soul Work that Uncovers Your True Beauty – Erica Campbell
Mo’s Bows: A Young Person’s Guide to Start-up Success – Moziah Bridges & Tramica Morris
My Bondage and My Freedom – Frederick Douglass
My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies – Resmaa Menakem
My Life: Queen of the Court – Serena Williams
My Story of Embracing Purpose, Healing & Hope – Karamo Brown
Nothing is Missing: A Memoir of Living Boldly – Nicole Walters
Nothing Personal – James Baldwin
Octavia’s Brood: Science Fiction from Social Justice Movements – adrienne maree brown (eds)
Of Greed and Glory: In Pursuit of Freedom for All – Deborah G. Plant
On the Other Side of Freedom: The Case for Hope – DeRay Mckesson
On Thriving: Harnessing Joy Through Life’s Great Labors – Brandi Sellerz-Jackson
Our Brave Foremothers: Celebrating 100 Black, Brown, Asian & Indigenous Women Who Changed the Course of History – Rozella Kennedy
Outliers: The Story of Success – Malcolm Gladwell
Own Your Phenomenal Self: A Guide on Character, Success, & Leadership – Rita P. Mitchell
Playing the Game Without a Coach: How Courage, Resilience and Forgiveness Helped One Man Seize the American Dream – Benjamin Raymond
Please Don’t Sit On My Bed In Your Outside Clothes – Phoebe Robinson
Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good – adrienne maree brown
Positive Obsession: The Life and Times of Octavia E. Butler – Susana M. Morris
Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks – Crystal Wilkinson
Produced by Faith: Enjoy Real Success Without Losing Your True Self – DeVon Franklin
Professional Troublemaker: The Fear Fighter Manual – Luvvie Ajayi Jones
Purple Harvest: Planting Goals, Growing Truths – Dr. Rashonda Harris
Purpose Driven Leadership: Building and Fostering Effective Teams – Brigette Tasha Hyacinth
Quantum Leaps: 10 Steps to Help You Soar – Gloria Mayfield Banks
Queer Eye: Love Yourself, Love Your Life – Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Jonathan Van Ness, Bobby Berk, & Karamo Brown
Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love and Liberation – Rev Angel Kyodo Williams
Reach: 40 Black Men Speak on Living, Leading, and Succeeding – Ben Jealous & Trabian Shorters
Reimagine Equity: Leading Strategically to Fulfill the Promise of DEI – James Whitfield & Kristen Whitfield
Responsible Marketing – Lola Bakare
Revelations: The Autobiography of Alvin Ailey – Alvin Ailey & A. Peter Bailey
Right Within: How to Heal From Racial Trauma in the Workplace – Minda Harts
Rise and Grind: Outperform, Outwork, and Outhustle Your Way to a More Successful and Rewarding Life – Daymond John & Daniel Paisner
Self-Esteem is the New Black: How to become the confident woman you have always wanted to be! – Monique Mays
Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself – Nedra Glover Tawwab
Singing Away the Hunger – Mpho ‘M’atsepo Nthunya
Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches – Audre Lorde
Small Doses: Potent Truths for Everyday Use – Amanda Seales
So You Want to Talk About Race – Ijeoma Oluo
Somebody’s Daughter: A Memoir – Ashley C. Ford
Speaking Truth to Power – Anita Hill
Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America – Ibram X. Kendi
Standing Above the Crowd – James Donaldson
Starting at Zero – Jimi Hendrix
Strategize to Win: The New Way to Start Out, Step Up, or Start Over in Your Career – Carla Harris
Strength to Love – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Success Is A Side Effect: Leadership, Relationships, and Selective Amnesia – Moe Anderson
Success Never Smelled So Sweet: How I Followed My Nose and Found My Passion – Lisa Price & Hilary Beard
Successful Women Think Differently: 9 Habits to Make You Happier, Healthier & More Resilient – Valorie Burton
Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All – Russell Simmons
Swimming with Sharks in Dark Waters – Athene Brinson
Talk it Up!: A Guide to Successful Public Speaking – David Suk Brown & Danny Suk Brown
Talk to Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace – Minda Harts
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story – Nikole Hannah-Jones
The Art of Ronin Leadership – Mike Howard
The Autobiography of Malcolm X – Malcolm X & Alex Haley
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell – W. Kamau Bell
The Beautiful Ones – Prince
The Black Girl’s Guide to Financial Freedom: Build Wealth, Retire Early, and Live the Life of Your Dreams – Paris Woods
The Black Woman Millionaire: A Revolutionary Act that DEFIES Impossible – Dr. Venus Opal Reese
The Body Is Not An Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love – Sonya Renee Taylor
The Book of Awesome Black Americans – Monique Jones
The Color of Water: A Black Man’s Tribute to His White Mother – James McBride
The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey & Passions – Quincy Jones
The Dead Don’t Need Reminding – Julian Randall
The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto – Charles Blow
The Elevation Approach – Tina Wells
The Extraordinary Power of Leader Humility – Marilyn Gist
The Fire Next Time – James Baldwin
The Gatekeepers Are Gone: Hustle + Technology = Success – Lamar Tyler
The Hill We Climb – Amanda Gorman
The Last Black Unicorn – Tiffany Haddish
The Light We Carry – Michelle Obama
The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women – Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood, & Rhonda Joy McLean
The Memo: Five Rules for Your Economic Liberation – John Hope Bryant
The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table – Minda Harts
The Mentor Leader – Tony Dungy
The Merchant Prince of Black Chicago: Anthony Overton and the Building of a Financial Empire – Robert E. Weems
The Mind of a Winner – Steve Canal
The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl – Issa Rae
The One Week Budget – Tiffany Aliche
The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life’s Direction and Purpose – Oprah Winfrey
The Perfect Day to Boss Up – Rick Ross & Neil Martinez-Belkin
The Power of Broke – Daymond John
The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart – Alicia Garza
The Pursuit of Happyness – Chris Gardner
The Race Whisperer: Barack Obama and the Political Uses of Race – Melanye Price
The Rise: Creativity, the Gift of Failure, and the Search for Mastery – Sarah Lewis
The Road to Someplace Better: From the Segregated South to Harvard Business School and Beyond – Lillian Lincoln Lambert
The Secrets to Success: When You Want to Succeed as Bad as You Want to Breathe – Eric Thomas
The Souls of Queer Folk: How Understanding LGBTQ+ Culture Can Transform Your Leadership Practice – Dr. Joel A. Davis Brown
The Source of Self-Regard – Toni Morrison
The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference – Malcolm Gladwell
The Transformational Consumer – Tara-Nicholle Nelson
The Truths We Hold: An American Journey – Kamala Harris
The Urgent Life – Bozoma Saint John
The Wealth Choice: Secret Success of Black Millionaires – Dennis Kimbro
The Work: Searching for a Life that Matters – Wes Moore
These Wilds Beyond Our Fences: Letters to My Daughter on Humanity’s Search for Home – Bayo Akomolafe
Thick: And Other Essays – Tressie McMillan Cottom
This Is the Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism – Don Lemon
Transforming Ethnic and Race-Based Traumatic Stress with Yoga: Rest, Reflect, Renew – Gail Parker
Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms – Shellye Archambeau
Unbowed – Wangari Maathai
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man – Emmanuel Acho
Undrowned: Black Feminist Lessons from Marine Mammals – Alexis Pauline Gumbs
Unprecedented: The Masters and Me – Tiger Woods & Lorne Rubenstein
Up from Nothing: The Untold Story of How We (All) Succeed – John Hope Bryant
Upper Hand: The Future of Work for the Rest of Us – Sherrell Dorsey
We Are Bridges – Cassandra Lane
We Should All Be Feminists – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power – Rachel Rodgers
We Will Not Cancel Us – adrienne maree brown
Werk 101: Get Your Life Together Guide – Koereyelle DuBose
What I Know for Sure – Oprah Winfrey
When Leadership Matters – Robert Britten
When the Miracle Drops: How Instagram Helped Turn a Quick Fix Into a Million-Dollar Product – Jessica Dupart
Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Where You Are is Not Who You Are – Ursula Burns
White Girls – Hilton Als
Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun? – Reginald Lewis & Blair S. Walker
Wildflower: A Memoir – Aurora James
Will – Will Smith
Women of Color in Tech: A Blueprint for Inspiring and Mentoring the Next Generation of Technology Innovators – Susanne Tedrick
Worthy – Jada Pinkett Smith
Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death and Redemption in an American Prison – Shaka Senghor
Writings on the Wall: Searching for a New Equality Beyond Black and White – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person – Shonda Rhimes
You Are Before the World: Lessons on Doing Good without Being Undone – Tara Jaye Frank
You Got This!: Unleash Your Awesomeness, Find Your Path, and Change Your World – Maya Penn
You Owe You: Ignite Your Power, Your Purpose, and Your Why – Eric Thomas, PhD
Your Next Level Life: 7 Rules of Power, Confidence, and Opportunity for Black Women in America – Karen Arrington
You’ve Got to Be Hungry: The Greatness Within to Win – Les Brown
Zami: A New Spelling of My Name – Audre Lorde
We put a lot of work curating this list. If you appreciate it, please like it and share it with others.
4 Tips to Avoid Sounding Arrogant When Talking About Yourself
Self-promotion is an important skill in any professional setting. Being able to talk about your accomplishments helps others understand your value. However, it’s crucial to do this subtly and skillfully to avoid sounding arrogant or boastful. Here are four common mistakes people make when talking about themselves, and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Don’t Insert Self-Promotion Randomly
It’s completely fine to talk about your accomplishments, but make sure it’s relevant to the conversation. For example, if the conversation is about what everyone did over the weekend, it’s not the right time to mention that you won a Peace Prize three years ago. Randomly inserting self-promotion can make you seem out of touch and overly self-centered. Always ensure that what you share aligns with the context of the conversation.
2. Don’t Be Indirect or Coy
Omitting details or downplaying your accomplishments can backfire. This might seem like modesty, but it can be interpreted as false humility, which can come across as arrogant. For example, if the group is discussing where everyone went to college, and you say you studied in the Boston area without mentioning that you attended Harvard, it could be seen as trying too hard to appear humble. It’s better to be open about your accomplishments to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Don’t Give Unsolicited Advice
When talking about your achievements, focus on sharing what you learned rather than telling others what they should do. For example, saying, “I did this and learned X,” is much more impactful than “I did this and you should do it too.” Offering unsolicited advice can come off as preachy and arrogant. Keep the focus on your own experience and avoid imposing your opinions on others.
4. Don’t Give a Humble Brag
A humble brag is when you try to sound modest, but it ends up sounding like a brag in disguise. For instance, saying, “I wonder why I was chosen to lead this campaign when I have the least experience on the team,” is an indirect way of highlighting your success while pretending to be modest. Instead, simply say, “I was chosen to lead this campaign,” and let the facts speak for themselves.
Conclusion: Master the Art of Subtle Self-Promotion
Talking about yourself requires practice and self-awareness. By navigating these common mistakes, you can promote your accomplishments and avoid sounding arrogant. It’s all about balance—recognizing your achievements while remaining humble and considerate of others. For more tips on professional self-promotion, check out the video on how to promote yourself without bragging.
Admitting you’re wrong at work can be challenging, but it’s an essential part of professional accountability. We all make mistakes, and acknowledging them not only shows personal responsibility but also fosters a culture where it’s okay to make errors and learn from them. Here are six tips to help you admit your mistakes gracefully, strengthen trust, and enhance respect within your team.
1. Directly Admit It
When you realize you’ve made a mistake, address it as soon as possible. Simply acknowledge the mistake and take responsibility for it. For example, say, “This happened, and I’m responsible for it.” Being upfront shows that you’re aware of the mistake and ready to own it without deflection.
2. Don’t Blame Others
Avoid placing blame on others, even if the situation was influenced by factors outside your control. Focus solely on your role in the mistake. Blaming others can undermine your credibility and erode trust within your team. Owning your part in the mistake strengthens your accountability.
3. Don’t Over-Explain
While it may be tempting to go into detailed explanations, avoid over-explaining. Providing too much information can come across as defensive and may make it seem like you’re making excuses. Keep your explanation brief and to the point, focusing on the fact that you made an error and what you plan to do about it.
4. Acknowledge the Impact
Acknowledge how your mistake may have impacted others. Be open to hearing their feedback and concerns, and invite them to share any additional effects you might not be aware of. Demonstrating empathy for how others are affected shows that you’re genuinely concerned about the team and willing to make things right.
5. Suggest a Solution
Once you’ve acknowledged the mistake, suggest a possible solution to address it. Then, invite feedback from others to see if your solution is the best one. By involving the team in finding a solution, you not only demonstrate problem-solving skills but also show that you value their input.
6. Use the Mistake as a Learning Opportunity
Talking about your mistake in other settings, such as team meetings, can signal that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them. Sharing your experience openly with the team helps create a culture of accountability and growth. It shows that making mistakes is a part of the learning process and an opportunity to improve.
Conclusion: Strengthen Team Morale Through Accountability
Admitting you’re wrong at work and handling it with grace not only demonstrates accountability but also strengthens trust within your team. It signals that mistakes are opportunities for growth, and that learning from them is more important than perfection. By following these six tips, you can create a more open, respectful, and resilient work environment.
#20 Curiosity in software engineering with Cynthia Tee
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Curiosity at Work: Cynthia Tee on Leadership, Innovation, and Curiosity in Software Engineering
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Cynthia Tee, Senior Vice President of Engineering at Smartsheet. Cynthia shares her leadership journey in software engineering, spanning over two decades, and how curiosity has played a pivotal role in her career. From engineering roles at Microsoft and Nordstrom to leading Ada Developers Academy as Executive Director, Cynthia’s diverse experience has shaped her approach to leadership and innovation.
Curiosity as a Driver of Innovation and Collaboration at Smartsheet
Now leading a global team of over 530 engineers, Cynthia reflects on how curiosity drives innovation and collaboration within Smartsheet’s remote-first organization. She discusses how Smartsheet’s culture of alignment and openness fosters growth, particularly when integrating diverse perspectives from global acquisitions. Cynthia believes that curiosity is key to adapting and evolving, especially in a fast-paced, rapidly changing industry like software engineering.
Navigating Conflict and Change with Curiosity
Cynthia highlights the challenges and rewards of practicing curiosity, particularly during times of conflict or organizational change. Drawing from her experience in mergers and acquisitions, she emphasizes the importance of building trust and cross-pollinating ideas to create cohesive teams. Cynthia explains how curiosity enables leaders to navigate blind spots, make informed decisions, and balance urgency with thoughtful collaboration.
The Role of Empathy and Adaptability in Leadership
Cynthia’s unique perspective, shaped by her roles in both the tech and nonprofit sectors, underscores the importance of empathy and adaptability in leadership. She shares how being open to diverse ideas and experiences helps create an inclusive and effective team culture. Cynthia advocates for leaders who are curious and adaptable to navigate challenges and opportunities in today’s fast-changing world.
Fostering Curiosity in Software Engineering Teams
As an advocate for continuous learning, Cynthia offers practical advice for fostering curiosity within software engineering teams. From scenario-based recruiting to encouraging reflective practices like learning from mistakes, Cynthia believes curiosity can help engineers grow and innovate. She also recommends the book Think Again by Adam Grant, which inspires readers to challenge assumptions and stay open to new ideas.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, innovation, and building a culture where curiosity thrives. Cynthia’s insights on how curiosity drives success in software engineering and leadership are invaluable for professionals looking to foster growth and innovation in their teams.
#19 Curiosity in Health Insurance with Shannon Drotning
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Curiosity at Work: Shannon Drotning on Curiosity and Innovation in Health Insurance
In episode 19 of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Shannon Drotning, Market President for the West Coast at Providence Health Plan. Shannon shares her inspiring career journey, from starting as a customer service representative to becoming a senior leader in healthcare. She highlights how curiosity and a customer-first mindset have been central to her success in navigating the complexities of Medicare and the insurance industry. Shannon explains how customer-focused curiosity is driving innovation in health insurance.
Leading Innovation in Health Insurance with Customer-Focused Curiosity
With over 1,500 employees, Providence Health Plan has a mission to serve diverse communities. Shannon emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation while staying deeply connected to the people they serve. She explains how curiosity drives her team to continually refine their processes and improve customer service. This customer-first approach is essential for faster problem resolution and greater customer satisfaction.
The Role of Curiosity in Improving Customer Experience
Shannon discusses how Providence Health Plan lives up to its promise to “Know Me, Care for Me, Ease My Way” by actively listening to customer feedback. She draws inspiration from industries like retail, showing how curiosity in understanding customers’ needs can lead to significant improvements. By integrating customer insights and adopting an innovative mindset, Shannon and her team work to create a seamless, customer-centric experience.
Managing a Sales-Driven Team with Empathy and Curiosity
Managing a sales-driven team presents unique challenges, but Shannon highlights how curiosity can foster empathy and understanding. She focuses on hiring individuals who are not only skilled but also deeply committed to helping others navigate healthcare decisions. Shannon shares how fostering a learning culture encourages her team to approach challenges with curiosity, driving meaningful impact in the health insurance space.
Curiosity as a Catalyst for Growth, Collaboration, and Innovation
Through her leadership, Shannon models how curiosity fosters growth, collaboration, and innovation in a fast-paced industry. She believes that creating a culture of learning—where even small changes are valued—can transform workplace culture and lead to continuous improvement. By encouraging her team to see things through the eyes of their customers, Shannon demonstrates how curiosity can drive positive change in healthcare.
#17 Curiosity for administrative professionals with Rachel Suman
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In episode 17 of Curiosity at Work podcast, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Rachel Suman, Chief Experience Officer at the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). Rachel shares her inspiring journey from administrative professional to executive leader, providing valuable insights into the evolving role of administrative professionals across industries. IAAP, with over 7,000 members and a community of more than 80,000 professionals, is dedicated to empowering administrative professionals by offering training, leadership development, and advocacy.
Rachel discusses the diverse and impactful roles administrative professionals play within organizations and how IAAP supports their growth and influence globally. She highlights the importance of curiosity as a fundamental leadership skill within IAAP’s team culture. By embedding curiosity through feedback, self-reflection, and space for growth, Rachel explains how continuous learning is fostered in their organization. She also introduces feedback journals as an effective tool for tracking growth and creating a supportive learning environment.
As a passionate advocate for administrative professionals, Rachel offers practical tips on empowering administrative staff in any organization. From scenario-based interview questions to creating safe spaces for honest feedback, she shares actionable strategies for fostering curiosity, leadership, and growth. This episode emphasizes how curiosity and empathy can transform workplace culture, support administrative teams, and enhance organizational effectiveness.
#16 Curiosity in municipal economic development with Diem Ly
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Curiosity at Work: Diem Ly on Municipal Economic Development and Inclusive Growth
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, “Curiosity in municipal economic development with Diem Ly,” Dr. Julie Pham interviews Diem Ly, Division Director at the City of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development (OED). Diem shares her unique journey from community journalism and telecommunications to leading citywide efforts for inclusive economic growth. She discusses OED’s mission to support businesses, neighborhoods, and entire industries, ensuring opportunities reach all Seattle residents, regardless of background.
Navigating Post-Pandemic Economic Development
As the city adapts to a post-pandemic landscape, Diem reflects on the challenges of prioritizing the diverse needs of various stakeholders. She highlights the complexities of managing economic growth in a city that is rebuilding after a crisis. With a growing team, OED focuses on fostering inclusive growth while addressing urgent and long-term community needs.
The Role of Curiosity in Public Service
Diem, a relatively new public servant, compares her experience in the private sector to her role in public service. She discusses the importance of continuously learning about the many stakeholders she partners with and how public servants must document and share these insights within the organization. This ensures that community groups are not repeatedly asked for the same information, fostering better relationships with local residents and businesses.
Creating a Learning Culture Within OED
Diem emphasizes the importance of creating a feedback culture within her team. She believes it’s essential to encourage openness about mistakes and to embrace learning opportunities. This approach is key to maintaining a dynamic and responsive team. By fostering an environment where learning is operationalized across OED, Diem helps her department continually improve its processes.
Drawing Inspiration from Diverse Perspectives
Diem also draws inspiration from her family conversations, which inspire her personal curiosity. She believes that embracing different perspectives requires slowing down, acknowledging our assumptions, and being open to change. This practice strengthens her ability to practice curiosity at work, enhancing her leadership style and approach to community engagement. Diem underscores how curiosity, when embraced by teams, can build stronger relationships and lead to more thoughtful solutions in public service.
#15 Curiosity as a port commissioner with Ryan Calkins
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Curiosity at Work: Ryan Calkins on Curiosity as a Port Commissioner and Public Service Leadership
In episode #15 of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Ryan Calkins, Port of Seattle Commissioner and advisor at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). With two distinct roles spanning the public and research sectors, Ryan shares how curiosity helps him navigate complex challenges, foster innovation, and balance competing priorities.
Navigating the Port of Seattle and Public Service
The Port of Seattle is a public agency managing the Seattle airport and seaport, with over 2,700 employees, including 1,000 tradespeople. As commissioner, Ryan plays a key role in co-writing the budget alongside the Port’s Executive Director and providing oversight for the agency. In addition to his work at the Port, Ryan advises at PNNL, one of 17 U.S. regional research institutions. PNNL employs 6,500 people, mostly scientists, and Ryan focuses on connecting these scientists with industry to drive innovation.
Overcoming Barriers to Curiosity in Public Service
Ryan discusses the barriers to curiosity in public service, particularly the pressures of balancing stewardship with public scrutiny. As an elected official, he emphasizes the need to adapt to new facts while creating spaces for innovation without compromising essential services. He also reflects on the importance of handling power dynamics carefully, noting that criticizing privately and thanking publicly helps foster trust and collaboration with staff.
Curiosity and Thoughtful Leadership
Through his diverse experiences, from small business ownership to environmental advocacy, Ryan exemplifies how curiosity can fuel thoughtful leadership. Whether addressing complex issues of equity or exploring new opportunities in renewable energy, Ryan’s approach demonstrates the transformative power of curiosity. His leadership not only helps solve challenging problems but also inspires others to innovate and grow.
#14 Curiosity for early leaning providers with Phoebe Sade
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Curiosity at Work: Phoebe Sade on Leadership and Innovation in the Social Sector
In this episode of Curiosity at Work, “Curiosity for early leaning providers with Phoebe Sade,” Dr. Julie Pham interviews Phoebe Sade, Executive Officer of BrightSpark Early Learning Services, to explore how curiosity shapes leadership in the nonprofit sector. Phoebe leads a rapidly growing nonprofit that has expanded from 35 to 145 staff members. BrightSpark supports providers in King and Pierce counties, helping them access essential services to offer the best possible care for children and families.
Navigating Organizational Growth and Scaling Challenges
Phoebe reflects on the challenges of scaling an organization, especially with 40% of the team hired in the last two years. She emphasizes the importance of adapting communication and decision-making processes to better serve both staff and the communities they serve. Phoebe’s leadership style encourages flexibility and innovation as her team navigates the complexities of growth while maintaining the core values of the organization.
The Role of Curiosity in Creativity and Innovation
Phoebe highlights the role of curiosity in fostering creativity and finding innovative solutions. She shares how her team has rethought traditional approaches, such as moving from one-on-one coaching to group models. Despite constraints like funding limitations in government contracts, Phoebe shows how these challenges can spark transformative ideas and approaches. Her leadership philosophy encourages staff to ask questions, challenge norms, and seek sustainable solutions that meet community needs without burning out.
Empathy and Openness: Core Values of Effective Leadership
Through candid reflections on her journey, Phoebe underscores the importance of empathy and openness in leadership. Whether managing rapid organizational growth or rethinking long-standing practices, she exemplifies how curiosity can drive change and create impactful solutions. Phoebe’s story is a powerful reminder of how curiosity, when embraced, can fuel innovation and help leaders navigate complex challenges in the nonprofit sector.
If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe! By subscribing, you’ll never miss an episode filled with inspiring leaders and valuable discussions on how curiosity drives innovation, leadership, and workplace culture. Join us on the journey of continuous learning—subscribe now and stay curious!
#13 How Curiosity Fuels Arts Organizations: Insights from Michael Greer, CEO of ArtsFund
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Curiosity at Work: Michael Greer on Leadership and Innovation in the Arts Sector
Michael Greer, CEO of ArtsFund, joins Dr. Julie Pham on the Curiosity at Work podcast to explore how curiosity drives leadership in the arts sector. As the CEO of ArtsFund, Michael oversees grant-making, capacity building, and advocacy for over 800 arts organizations across Washington State. In this episode, he shares how curiosity helps him manage a hybrid team, balance the needs of grassroots organizations with larger entities, and lead through uncertain times.
Fostering Curiosity and Innovation in the Arts
Michael highlights the importance of creating an environment where innovation is encouraged, and failure is seen as an opportunity to learn. By fostering curiosity, organizations can better adapt and thrive, even during challenging times. He explains how curiosity helps the arts sector move forward by driving new ideas and solutions.
Navigating Uncertainty and Embracing New Technologies
Drawing from his global experience in arts and business leadership, Michael discusses how curiosity plays a critical role in overcoming uncertainty. Arts organizations today face many challenges, but curiosity can help them thrive. Michael shares how ArtsFund goes beyond providing financial support. They also focus on leadership and collaboration across the sector. Additionally, he urges arts leaders to embrace new technologies and entertainment formats. Rather than viewing these changes as competition, they should see them as opportunities to engage new audiences.
Strategies for Cultivating Curiosity and Resilience
Michael’s leadership journey has been shaped by diverse experiences. From his early career as a professional ballet dancer to his time working in China and India, his journey reflects the power of curiosity. He shares practical strategies for cultivating curiosity within teams. His leadership philosophy encourages his team to ask questions, experiment, and embrace calculated risks. These strategies help build innovation and resilience in the arts sector.
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation, don’t forget to subscribe! By subscribing, you’ll never miss an episode filled with inspiring leaders and valuable discussions on how curiosity drives innovation, leadership, and workplace culture. Join us on the journey of continuous learning—subscribe now and stay curious!
#12 How Curiosity Fuels HR Leadership and Talent Strategy: Insights from Britt Provost, CHRO of Siteimprove
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In this episode of Curiosity at Work, host Dr. Julie Pham talks with Britt Provost, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at Siteimprove. A seasoned HR professional, Britt has over 20 years of experience in global technology. She creates progressive career experiences through her HR team’s efforts. She believes curiosity is essential to HR leadership and talent development.
Britt’s leadership approach is rooted in curiosity. She sees it as vital for success in fast-paced tech environments. Curiosity helps leaders and teams adapt and stay open to new ideas. It encourages risk-taking and learning from challenges. This mindset is especially valuable in global technology.
During the discussion, Britt and Dr. Pham talk about the challenges of leading global teams. Global teams often span different time zones, cultures, and communication styles. Britt emphasizes how a curious mindset fosters better decision-making and creativity. Encouraging curiosity allows employees to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and stay open to new perspectives.
Britt also highlights the need for structured approaches. These approaches empower employees to engage with curiosity. Leaders can provide tools and frameworks to foster curiosity, driving sustained growth. Britt reflects on how curiosity has shaped her leadership style and organizational cultures throughout her career.
Listeners will gain insights into how curiosity shapes Britt’s leadership philosophy. Britt focuses on people development and strategic HR. Her insights are relevant for leaders in fast-moving industries like tech. Continuous learning, adaptability, and open dialogue are crucial in these environments. Curiosity is not just beneficial—it is vital for long-term success.
#3 Curiosity for tech startup innovators with Elizabeth Scallon
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Join Dr. Julie Pham in an enlightening conversation with Elizabeth Scallon, a dynamic leader in the tech world. Elizabeth has an impressive background spanning higher education, startups, industry, and funding. Currently, she holds the title of Director of Corporate Incubation at HP, where she helps bring innovative ideas to life and make a significant impact.
In this episode, Elizabeth discusses her role in fostering curiosity at work, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, relationship building, and clear communication. She shares her experiences in the tech startup world, the value of early customer feedback, and the challenges of managing expectations.
This episode is packed with valuable lessons on leadership, the role of curiosity in innovation, and the continuous journey of professional growth. Don’t miss this chance to learn from Elizabeth’s wealth of experience and apply her insights to your own work environment.
About Elizabeth Scallon:
Elizabeth Scallon is the Director of Corporate Incubation at HP. With a rich career that includes roles at the University of Washington, Amazon’s corporate venture arm, and WeWork, Elizabeth has a deep understanding of the tech startup ecosystem. She also founded Find Ventures, a nonprofit supporting entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds with early-stage funding.
What I learned in managing expectations with others and with myself
Feb 1, 2022 to Jan. 21, 2023 marked the Year of the Tiger. This is a display at Wing Luke Museum.
In my second year as an entrepreneur, I learned a lot about how to manage expectations with others and especially managing my own expectations of myself.
Managing expectation is a never ending exercise in clearly articulating our needs, wants, and hopes. It requires activating all three elements of practicing curiosity: self- awareness, relationship building, and communication.
Here’s what I learned to help me navigate the dynamics of managing expectations that I’ve applied to both my personal and professional life.
Don’t expect people to change, yet believe them if they do change
Changing behavior is difficult for those who want to change, and impossible for those who don’t want to change. I’ve learned not to expect people to change. At the same time, people can change and I have to let go of grudges and old expectations to believe that they have changed. This has been especially true in my personal life. I’ve seen my mom change after my dad passed, in positive ways I didn’t expect. Just as I want others to see that I am capable of change, I have to be willing to believe others can change too, even if I shouldn’t expect it.
Explicitly describe what people can expect from me
I have to constantly remind myself that people can’t read my mind and I have to be more explicit. In regards to their own expectations, some people think in terms of what they will gain and benefit. For my clients, I describe what they will get with specific examples. For my team, I try to anticipate their questions and concerns. This is especially important now as people worry about layoffs. For my friends, I let them know what kind of support I can provide.
Explicitly describe what people shouldn’t expect from me
Other people think in terms of what they might lose or won’t get, so I also list what I won’t be doing and what they will not get, so that I can manage their expectations. For example, I often tell people my 7 Forms of Respect framework will NOT teach them how to be respectful, that it’s not like 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. For my team, I’ve made it clear that until we become consistently profitable, I can’t increase hours or provide more benefits. For my friends, I let them know when I can’t provide support in the ways they asked of me.
Accept that people will have expectations of me I can’t fulfill
It’s natural for people to make assumptions about me that lead to certain expectations. I have found that people often think because I’m a woman of color in leadership development, my work will focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) when it doesn’t. I don’t get upset by this expectation; I just explain that I’m not a DEI expert.
Name incorrect expectations
Painful learning experiences made me learn how to name incorrect expectations before I reset their expectations. For example, I now sometimes start workshops with, “You may think this is racial justice training and it’s not. This is what we’ll be doing instead and why.”
Ask people to manage my expectations by managing theirs
In being clear that expenses outpaced revenue this past year, I tell my team that I understand they have to consider their individual financial needs because I don’t know when I can provide higher salaries. I just ask them to keep me updated if they do search for work elsewhere. When a team member left for a great career opportunity, I was not surprised. My expectations were managed.
Differentiate between expectations and hope
Entrepreneurship requires optimism. I was wildly overly optimistic in my revenue projections coming into my second year. I realized expectations should be based on my previous experiences to believe what is realistic and possible, not from strangers’ success stories I read on the Internet!
Don’t compare myself to others in creating expectations for myself
This is a hard one to admit that I do. I constantly have to remind myself not to compare. I have
close friends who are also authors of wildly successful books. As a self-published author without a long track record of prestigious publications or public speaking, I can’t apply the same expectations for success to myself. If I only look at those who I think have more, I will always feel I don’t have enough. So, I can’t compare.
Continue to do things I love even if they don’t meet my expectations
There are so many things I love doing, such as writing essays like this, that don’t meet my expectations of desired outcomes. I often remind myself that I don’t write because I expect a lot of views; I write to have an impact, even if that impact is limited to a few readers. Think about what things you love to do and that you would do no matter what, even if they don’t live up to your expectations. This lesson is also connected to the one on differentiating between expectations and hope (see lesson #7).
Lower my expectations to “good enough” so I can experiment faster
I sometimes slip into perfectionist standards. This past year, I pushed myself to create content with less and sometimes no outside editing before I post. I’ve been surprised by how my raw content can resonate with people, like my 2021 reflections on managing my energy instead of my time or my Instagram reel that went viral when I made fun of myself. This lesson is one I will lean into even more in 2023.
I’ve learned to accept that managing expectations is an iterative process in which I have to be asking questions and listening carefully to both others and to myself.
